The following is the Miami Herald's editorial endorsing the incumbent, Alcee Hastings, in Tuesday's Democratic primary:
For U.S. Congress, District 23
Belle Glade City Commissioner Ray Torres Sanchez says that incumbent Congressman Alcee Hastings has served this district long enough and that it is time for a change. Mr. Hastings, who has been reelected seven times since 1992, has no intention of giving up his seat -- nor should he. He has served this large, disgracefully gerrymandered district well -- and deserves another term in office.
Both Mr. Hastings, 71, and Mr. Sanchez, 50, are Democrats, and the winner of the Aug. 26 primary will face Republican Marion D. Thorpe Jr. in the Nov. 4 general election. The disconnected district includes parts of five counties (Broward, Palm Beach, Hendry, Martin and St. Lucie) and vast swatches of the Everglades. The boundary-line drawers made sure that it included the poorest areas, so it hopscotches from one community to the next.
Mr. Hastings combines intelligence, fiery passion, a quick wit and a can-do spirit. He serves on the Rules Committee and is chair of the Legislative and Budget subcommittee. He has gotten federal dollars for revitalization projects in Fort Lauderdale, Lauderhill, Miramar, Riviera Beach, Delray Beach, West Palm Beach and Lauderdale Lakes.
He was among the first in Congress to argue forcefully against the Iraq war, demanding -- before the invasion -- that President Bush produce a plan for the long term stabilization of Iraq. He introduced bills to lower gas prices and says he will continue the push for comprehensive immigration reform. For U.S. Congress, District 23, The Miami Herald recommends ALCEE L. HASTINGS.
Read all the Miami Herald's recommendations on Tuesday's ballot at MiamiHerald.com.
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