Smith, Loftis for state House

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Smith is opposed by Libertarian Laird Minor, a Simpsonville businessman who is seeking this office for the second time. He challenged Smith in a 2003 special election to fill former Rep. Mike Easterday's remaining term.

Loftis is opposed by Berea TV researcher Luanne Taylor, a newcomer to politics who is running as a Democrat.

Despite a mixed legislative record, Loftis has earned another term. He isn't considered a leader among his House colleagues and Loftis has exerted plenty of wasted energy on pointless, ideologically driven legislation that usually targets the local school district. These attempts to frustrate board action and usurp local authority he's pushed bills to intervene on plans to move Beck Academy and kill the district's school construction plan should end.

Loftis' energy should be spent supporting the generally sound agenda of his party as the House is expected to debate legislation that will reshape how this state taxes and governs and how it grows economically. Loftis has some good ideas. And he's also shown a willingness to support forward-looking, progressive measures. For example, he co-sponsored the bill that pushed for early action compliance on federal air quality rules a bill that seeks compromise with the federal government. Loftis has also put his vote behind bipartisan efforts to reform the state's DUI laws, extend prescription drugs to seniors and fund higher education plans to build a viable research infrastructure in this state.

Taylor is an earnest candidate who wants the state to put more state troopers on the road and improve health care. But Loftis is better prepared to lead on the major issues.

Smith, who has served less than a full term representing his Simpsonville-area district, doesn't have much of a track record. He has not been the major sponsor of any noteworthy legislation. But Smith has been an advocate for restructuring and budget reforms that will limit expenditure growth. Smith, who has a master's degree in public administration and has been a long-time consultant for local governments, is most at home evaluating operational efficiency and posing process solutions. He needs to shed his bureaucratic roots and grow as a policymaker.

Minor, who snared only 4 percent of the vote last time, wants to severely cut government. Many of his views are classic libertarian. Smith's views are more in line with his district and the governing philosophy of this state.