Endorsement: Re-elect Gayle Harrell to Florida Senate

Gayle Harrell is a political fixture in Florida Senate District 31, which stretches from St. Lucie County through Martin County into Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, Royal Palm Beach, Westlake and The Glades. In a race between a longtime incumbent and a promising Democratic newcomer, the Post recommends voters re-elect Republican Harrell to a four-year term she says will be her last as a state legislator.

Harrell, 81, has spent 28 years as a state lawmaker, which gives her experience and stature. She enjoys seniority as chair of the health appropriations committee and vice-chair of environment and natural resources committee, which givers her a big voice in bringing appropriations and shaping policies important to the district.

Harrell is a reliable Republican vote, which may rankle her constituents who want a more independent or progressive approach to state problems. She still supports many of Gov. Ron DeSantis' unpopular initiatives, gun rights and state efforts to address healthcare needs without Medicaid expansion. But unlike many Republicans seeking public office in Palm Beach County, she is open to hearing new ideas and she's not afraid to share her own.

If re-elected, Harrell will continue to address environment and water management issues important to the district. Like many of her constituents, she was caught by surprise and opposed DeSantis administration plans to approve three golf courses on Jonathan Dickinson State Park and development at other state parks. She has vowed to introduce legislation to protect parks' natural habitats.

Harrell faces a challenge from Democrat Aaron James Hawkins, 26, a former substitute teacher and researcher who owns and operates an arts and media company. He would be a reliable Democratic vote, in addressing housing affordability, property insurance and curbing Florida's pre-emption laws over local communities. We encourage his continued participation in community affairs and electoral politics. At the moment, Harrell is the better choice for the seat.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Endorsement: Re-elect Gayle Harrell to Florida Senate