Sen. Tom Niehaus has been a member of the Ohio Senate since 2005 and The Tribune believes he should be sent back to Columbus for another four-year term.

The New Richmond Republican is the Senate floor leader and quickly rose through the ranks to a position in leadership that benefits his constituents.

His committees include Energy and Public Utilities, Education, Environment and Natural Resources (which he chairs), Finance and Financial Institutions, Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review, Rules and the Legislative Service Commission.

Niehaus has positioned himself to be a key voice in the Ohio Senate and that came as a result of his ability to deal with issues in a non-partisan fashion.

If re-elected, he is poised to become the Senate Pro-Tem, the second highest-ranking position in that body.

Niehaus’ experience as a state representative and a state senator, his ability to reach across the aisle and his position in leadership make him the best choice for Lawrence Countians when stacked up against Democrat Greg Napolitano and Libertarian Party candidate M. Ann Leech.

But there is more. Although newcomer Napolitano’s background as an attorney makes him a worthy candidate, Niehaus is unmatched in the race when it comes to his familiarity with Lawrence County and his willingness to work with local leaders across the political spectrum.

Whether it be because of campaign resources or other reasons, Niehaus has been more visible than his opponents in Lawrence County.

And even though Lawrence County needs Niehaus a lot more than Niehaus needs Lawrence County, that has not stopped him from showing an interest in this part of the 14th District.

Voters expect accessibility, understanding and performance when it comes to their representatives. And that is exactly what Tom Niehaus has provided.