If Sarah S. Anker wins her sixth full term, it will be her last, a tenure during which the 57-year-old Mount Sinai Democrat has become more knowledgeable and effective over time.
One of her biggest efforts, the North Shore Rail Trail, will soon be completed. Her efforts to combat drug addiction, starting with her role on the Suffolk County Addiction and Prevention and Support Advisory Panel, are tireless. Her district knowledge positions her well to help residents.
Republican Brendan R. Sweeney, 28, of Shoreham, a law student and assistant to Brookhaven Town Supervisor Edward Romaine, clearly has a passion for public service. His desire to close the loophole that lets term-limited legislators run again after a break makes sense. His complaints about county patronage positions are justified. He should stay on a path of public service.
But Anker is a seasoned, effective legislator, at the height of her powers.
Newsday endorses Anker.