While we appreciate the service and hard work of retiring state Rep. Jeff Wheeland, R-Loyalsock Township, we also are optimistic about the race for the Republican nomination to fill his seat in the state House. Voters in much of Lycoming County will have a choice Tuesday between Ann Kaufman and Jamie Flick.

The Williamsport Sun-Gazette had the opportunity to interview both candidates and reported on their priorities for state government in Friday’s edition.

Both candidates understand the importance of natural gas to our region’s economy and opportunities for employment and for fostering energy independence. With a climate in state and national politics that is often impractical on the issue of energy and hostile to the role of natural gas, it will be important for our region to still have that voice.

Both candidates are rightfully concerned with the cost of state government and the scope of state government. Both, in different ways, advocated for empowering communities, families and businesses to lead our state and meet our state’s needs.

Both candidates want to improve our state’s tax rates. We commend their commitment to continuing the work of Gov. Tom Wolf — on one of the rare issues where we can unequivocally praise his efforts — on reducing our state’s obscene corporate tax rate. A lower corporate tax rate would help Pennsylvania attract new employers to offer the variety of opportunities our residents deserve and the kind of opportunities that will help keep young workers in our towns and neighborhoods.

While we regret that a few supporters of both candidates have too often veered into negative campaigning, we hope after Tuesday’s votes are counted they are able to bury the proverbial hatchet and work together. Each one has a resume that can offer the other a unique and valued perspective, and together — regardless of Tuesday’s outcome — they can fight for the issues that we all hold dear.