The Times recommends Hurst in the 31st District

THE next session of the Washington Legislature will be even more challenging than the past few outings. The budget is tight again, and that means moderates of both political parties will have to do much of the heavy lifting.

In the 31st Legislative District covering parts of Pierce and King counties, the best choice for Position 2 is Christopher Hurst, a Democrat, but a centrist player who lists himself on the ballot as "prefers Independent Democratic Party."

It is not just idle talk. Hurst has earned another term because he genuinely believes everyone has to participate in solving the state's spending problem, including state employees who can no longer expect cost-of-living increases each year and health premiums far out of sync with the private sector.

This will become one of many battles in Olympia. Hurst gets the challenges facing the state and he is a proud member of a group of moderate, pro-business politicians who call themselves somewhat tongue in cheek, "Roadkill" Democrats.

Hurst's opponent, Patrick Reed, a Republican, is very well thought of in the corporations division of the Secretary of State's Office, where he works. He does, however, have an underwhelming voting record, which is odd, of course, for an individual working in that office.

Hurst is seasoned and ready for numerous challenges. Voters should support him with ease.