Julie Kushner for the 24th

The candidates for the 24th District of the state Senate agree that Connecticut is at a “crossroads,” but disagree about which direction to take.

Incumbent Republican state Sen. Michael McLachlan, who is seeking a sixth term, and Democratic challenger Julie Kushner have markedly different styles and approaches.

McLachlan, 60, gives a dose of medicine when he states Connecticut cannot afford new programs or projects until it reins in spending. Kushner, 66, offers a dose of optimism when she talks about bringing people together with fresh ideas and building coalitions.

She calls Republican suggestions to cut pensions or reopen employee contracts “slash and burn;” he calls her goal of transportation improvements to better get people to work unrealistic for these times.

A former labor organizer, she would advocate for paid family leave of 12 weeks; he voted against the measure as unaffordable to businesses and “wrong timing.”

They have divergent views on charter schools. A proposal for Prospect Charter School in Danbury received state approval, but not yet any funding. McLachlan supports the charter as a solution to public school overcrowding. Kushner opposes giving state money to charter schools with the concern less would be available for public education.

One issue of agreement is tolls. Both candidates are against them, a position reflective of the concerns of border towns in the district — Danbury, New Fairfield and Sherman, as well as the northern slice of Bethel.

McLachlan is co-chairman of the Government Administration & Elections Committee and vice chairman of the Judiciary Committee, among other leadership positions. His attention to detail and his dedication to the district are unassailable. We appreciate his unwavering support of Freedom of Information. A staunch conservative, he advocates for limited government.

Connecticut’s promise will be achieved through wise government, however, not limited government.

We would like to see Julie Kushner have the opportunity to bring her fresh approach to Hartford to tackle the serious needs of the district. We endorse Julie Kushner for the 24th state Senate seat.