Herald Endorsement

Return Walker to 17th L.D. seat

Posted

Being an elected official at the local level is all about being visible and being responsive. Republican Nassau County Legislator Rose Marie Walker has that down pat.

Walker, a lifelong resident of Hicksville, has long been active in her community, and progressed through the levels of local government. She started out as a school board member, then joined the Oyster Bay town board before being elected to the Legislature six years ago. These experiences have given her a great perspective on all local issues.

Nassau County residents want leaders who listen to their concerns and do something about them. Walker, a widow, says that the same issues that affect the county’s middle class affect her, too. She is concerned about taxes, safety and quality of life. She wants her children to be able to stay on Long Island, and that means finding ways to make the county a more affordable place to live.

Her opponent, Dan Devine, a Democrat from Hicksville, canceled two meetings with the Herald editorial board and did not return responses to questions we sent him. We were unable to get to know him, and where he stands on the issues. We also question his ability to commit to two years in the Legislature.

Walker, on the other hand, has made clear her commitment to the job — as she did to her prior elected positions. Involved in many organizations, she is generally a visible presence, though we would like to see more of her in Seaford, part of which was added to her district two years ago. It should have been Walker, not 19th District Legislator Steve Rhoads, who presented awards on behalf of the county at Seaford High School’s Homecoming, which is in her district.

Overall, her dedication to the job and to the residents of Nassau County is unquestioned. We endorse her for another term representing the 17th Legislative District.