the Lincoln Journal Star | Posted: Thursday, April 27, 2006 7:00 pm
The race for District 46 is unburdened by something plaguing other legislative races in the state: A lack of female candidates.
All three of the candidates for the seat held by longtime Sen. David Landis, who must leave because of term limits, are women. The similarities end there.
The state’s seniors need a helping hand from government in the form of lower taxes, says LaRae Eifert, who touts her experience as a businesswoman. “Our tax bill is too high, forcing families and businesses to leave our great state,” Eifert said.
When Danielle Nantkes looks at the district, one aspect of it draws immediate attention. It’s the second poorest in the state, she said, and “we don’t have time for complacency.”
In her work as an attorney with Nebraska Appleseed, an organization that aids low-income and disadvantaged residents, Nantkes says she has helped shape and advance state legislation. Therefore, she says she is the only candidate that can “hit the ground running” in the Legislature.
While building organized support at the grassroots level and pushing City Hall for change over the years, Carol Brown learned something: “You don’t need to be a lawyer,” to navigate the political process.
Brown has a soft spot for small-business owners — she is one herself — and has been a player in neighborhood activism for years. “I look at things from a multipronged approach,” she said.
Meet the candidates
Name: Carol J. Brown
Age: 53
Address: 2201 Elba Circle, Lincoln
Occupation: Business development specialist, Lincoln Action Program, and co-owner of family business, North Star Jewelry
Political party: Democrat
Name: LaRae Eifert
Age: 51
Address: 7324 Ballard Place, Lincoln
Occupation: Small business owner
Political party: Republican
Name: Danielle Nantkes
Age: 28
Address: 3179 R St., No. 1, Lincoln
Occupation: Attorney
Political party: Democrat
Question: Term limits require senators to gain proficiency on state issues more quickly than ever before. What about your life, job and educational experiences will allow you to grasp issues quickly and become a leader for them? Will you be able to approach being a senator like a full-time, or nearly full-time, job?
Brown: For 30 years, I’ve passionately championed causes on behalf of my community. I will dedicate that same devotion to serving the residents of the 46th district and the Nebraska Legislature. I know the people of the 46th District are looking for someone to lead them by making good decisions. I have proven to have that leadership ability. The Legislature is made up of people with varied backgrounds, necessary for solid common sense decision-making.
Eifert: I know what it’s like to endure hardships and to value the lessons learned in difficult times. In 1985 my husband passed away, at which time I moved to Lincoln to raise our two daughters. The lessons I learned being a single mother and joy I have experienced through my children and granddaughter have taught me to always work hard to provide for those we care about and to have the confidence to do always do what is right. I will take that same full-time commitment and confidence with me to the Legislature.
Nantkes: It is vital that new senators be able to hit the ground running, otherwise their constituents will be voiceless while they learn the ropes. I am the only candidate in this race who has actual legislative experience that includes a keen understanding of the budget process, the revenue structure, and how to write and pass legislation that benefits working families. I would approach the job of being a senator as a full-time job.
Question: Do you have ideological stances on any issues, such as abortion, from which you will not budge, and why?
Brown: Yes, I do have some ideological stances on issues. Those ideals are a composition of who I am. I will always make good decisions to provide stability in lives of individuals, families and children in Nebraska communities.
Eifert: I am firmly committed to protecting and preserving Nebraska traditions and values. I stand firm in my commitment to protect life at all stages, and to stand up for senior citizens, families, children and those who are vulnerable in our society.
Nantkes: I think that one of the most important characteristics of a good legislator is to always be open to different perspectives, new information and other ideas. I have experience bringing together diverse interests and finding common-sense solutions to meet the needs of all involved. I would never vote to weaken Nebraska’s excellent public education system or to restrict the resources and flexibility the University of Nebraska needs to carry out its unique mission.
Question: What can the state do to reverse the trend of declining populations in most parts of the state?
Brown: We need to identify the uniqueness, warmth and charm of our small communities, what they have to offer and what kind of businesses they can sustain. The State Economic Development Department should work closely and teach rural community leaders how to assess their town’s physical assets, make the best of them and how to promote them. We also need to make sure our public education opportunities are offered equally throughout Nebraska.
Eifert: I firmly believe that we must provide a quality education for our children at all levels and to create economic opportunities for them once they have completed their education. I am encouraged by new “homeshoring” efforts that would outsource more advanced information technology capabilities, service jobs and business processes to rural America rather than sending these jobs overseas. Our Legislature must create a climate to encourage this.
Nantkes: The state needs to continue to focus on economic development issues to ensure that good jobs are available to people who want to remain in Nebraska, contribute to our economy and raise their families. Additionally, the state needs to ensure our tax climate does not impose burdens on retirees which may force them to relocate out of state.