Re-elect Joey Brush to state Senate

Two years ago, this newspaper recommended the re-election of state Sen. Joey Brush to the 24th District seat. At that time, Brush was weathering a series of public embarrassments, from intemperate public comments to a rash of traffic citations. Aside from these incidents, however, Brush had proven to be an attentive, capable public servant, and deserved both re-election and a chance to demonstrate progress toward political maturity.

Brush has done so - not only continuing to serve his constituents well, but by avoiding the excesses that have sometimes made it difficult to take him seriously as a politician.

As a result, Brush deserves the support of Columbia County citizens, and we enthusiastically recommend his re-election.

In addition to his 10 years of experience, Brushs value as an incumbent to the gerrymandered district is difficult to overestimate. Stretching from Columbia County almost to the west side of Georgia, the redrawn 24th is overbearing Democratic politics at its worst.

Brush is perhaps one of the Legislatures more stalwart members in fighting the ruling partys excesses. He has been fearless in the face of Democratic opposition, winning begrudging admiration from the most partisan opponents.

Brush deserves accolades, too, for selflessly looking beyond his own re-election in the run-up to Tuesdays vote. Understanding the importance of a high turnout from Columbia Countys voters in state-wide races, he has waged a virtual one-man, get-out-the-vote drive.

Hes able to work on the big picture largely because his re-election is all but assured. First, the new 24th District was created from the scraps of neighboring Democratic districts, which shed Republican-leaning communities into the 24th. The process strengthened the left-leaning districts, but it made Brushs 24th a virtual GOP fortress.

Second, Brushs opponent doesnt have a realistic chance. Her pollyannaish vision of unfunded campaigns and promises of whistleblowing are no substitute for political savvy and practical experience. Brush has both.

Even in a tougher fight, Brush deserves re-election. We commend him to voters in the 24th District.