Both major political parties are fielding new candidates in the 10th District race for the Washington State House of Representatives, Position 2.

The incumbent chose not to run again, so voters will pick between Democrat Eron Berg, the elected mayor of LaConner, and Republican Barbara Bailey, best known for her many community service activities in Oak Harbor.

Berg points to his successes as mayor and his involvement in various governmental advisory groups. Bailey counters with her experience in private business and volunteer activities.

Berg brings youth, enthusiasm and an obvious love of politics to the race, while Bailey offers a skeptical view of government tempered by a real desire to help those who can not help themselves.

Both have potential, but in these trying economic times, Bailey is the best choice.

When the Legislature convenes in 2003, it will be facing the largest budget deficit in its history. A tax hike will likely be necessary to help balance the budget, but it should be done only after some serious budget cutting takes place. Democrats, beholden to state employee unions, just can’t do what has to be done. Bailey has the experience to know that in good times all should prosper, but in bad times all should share the pain — not just the taxpayers.

Bailey is no anti-tax radical. She supports Referendum 51 which would raise gas taxes to fix some roads that badly need fixing. That alone suggests she possesses the flexibility to deal with the budget crisis.

Berg, though promising, is a bit too pro-government for the time. He needs more years’ seasoning before being elected to higher office. In the meantime, voters should give Barbara Bailey a chance to prove she can get the job done in Olympia.