6th Senate District endorsement — Hannon

Republican State Senator Kemp Hannon is facing Democratic challenger Ryan Cronin, 32, for the seat in the 6th District.

Both men seem to have similar backgrounds. Both are from Garden City and both are lawyers. And they both seem like they would do well as representatives from the district.

The two agree that people on Long Island and New York are being taxed out of their homes, and both also agree that lowering taxes through mandate relief is a key to keeping people here.

But when it comes to experience, there’s a clear distinction. Cronin has good experience for someone his age, working for the Special Olympics, voter protection initiatives and doing pro-bono work through his law firm. But Hannon has 23 years experience in the Senate. That’s experience that the district needs, especially in tough times like this.

Hannon has sponsored and authored numerous pieces of legislation, including the recent I-Stop law to help track prescription drugs and a new law governing how schools should handle concussions and other brain injuries in students.

During his years in the Senate, Hannon has earned a position of respect among his peers. He’s the chair of the Health Committee — an important role.

While we don’t believe Cronin is a bad candidate, it seems he’s setting his sights a little high for his first bid for political office. With more experience, he would make an ideal candidate for this seat. Hannon has the experience that the district needs and earned the Herald’s endorsement.