State Rep. Josh Mandel is endorsed by PD

State Rep. Josh Mandel has been given the endorsement for re election by the Plain Dealer.

From the PD --

This district includes Bentleyville, Brecksville, Broadview Heights, Chagrin Falls, Chagrin Falls Township, Glenwillow, Hunting Valley, Independence, Lyndhurst, Moreland Hills, Oakwood, Pepper Pike, Seven Hills, Solon, Valley View, Walton Hills and part of Mayfield Heights.

THE CANDIDATES:

Josh Mandel,

30, a Republican, is a former member of Lyndhurst City Council now seeking his second term in the House. He has a bachelor's degree from Ohio State University and a law degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Law. Mandel has served two stints in Iraq as a Marine Corps intelligence specialist.

Bob Belovich,

57, is an attorney with 30 years in private practice and is also vice president of the Brecksville-Broadview Heights Democratic Club. He has a bachelor's degree in economics from Case Western Reserve University and a law degree from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law.

OUR VIEW: This is a contest between two good candidates. But Belovich was an unapologetic supporter of the jobs-killer initiative mandating paid sick time, since pulled from the ballot. But he is sincere, well-informed and would probably become an effective legislator. Mandel's first term was significantly interrupted by his admirable service in Iraq. A second term should tell us whether he will live up to his advance billing as a future political star. He has earned the chance to prove himself.

Let's hope the democrats understand even Governor Strickland was against the "chase more jobs out of Ohio" initiative for mandatory paid sick time that Belovich was so unapologetic in supporting. In effect a vote for Belovich would mean the democrats would be voting against their beloved Gov. Strickland.

The last person we need elected is someone like Belovich that will chase more jobs out of Ohio!

I believe Josh has already proven himself to be a dedicated servant for the people in this district and the United States. His firm understanding and intricate knowledge of local and state issues, along with the problems we face as a nation, not to mention his grasp on international issues, Josh is a great asset for the 17th District, the State of Ohio and our country as a whole.