Incumbent Secretary of State Eric Clark's decision not to run for re-election has created a wide open, competitive contest for a statewide office.

 

Why such a dry-as-dust post, which has duties as varied as watching over election laws to ensuring 16th Section school trust land is bringing top dollar, has such a crowded field is anyone's guess. But it's a delight to have such talent.

 

In the Democratic Primary, contenders are veteran former state legislator and present Realtor and accountant Rob Smith, 56, of Richland; state Department of Education Office of Compulsory School Attendance employee Jabari Toins, 27, of Jackson; and attorney and former special assistant attorney general John Windsor, 29, of Corinth.

 

Windsor is the best for the job among the Democratic field. As Windsor points out, "it's time for a fresh face and fresh ideas."

 

With his legal experience and relative youth, Windsor has the right balance of talent, experience and potential to do well.

 

In the Republican Primary, real estate developer and attorney Delbert Hosemann Jr., 59, of Jackson, faces state Rep. Mike Lott, R-Petal, 50, former Columbus mayor Jeffrey Rupp, 47, and Crystal Springs businessman Gene Sills.

 

Hosemann is best for the job among the Republican field. The 1998 Republican nominee for Congress in the former 4th District, Hosemann has knowledge of real estate, elections and the legal system.

 

"Our campaign is one about cleaning up elections, passing meaningful and constitutional Voter ID, fairly managing the public land that funds our schools, and making Mississippi a more friendly place to start and maintain a small business," says Hosemann.

 

The post of secretary of state is probably one of the most wide-ranging in state government, requiring foremost integrity. Mississippi has been blessed by officeholders such as Clark and Dick Molpus before him, leaders who have put the people first.

 

In making a selection for this post, voters must ask themselves who they trust to look after their rights, in access to government through the election and administrative laws, to watching over trust lands for schoolchildren, among other duties.

 

In the Democratic Primary, John Windsor is the best choice.

 

In the Republican Primary, Delbert Hosemann is the best choice.

 

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