Few congressional districts in the nation are as large and diverse as Arizona's District 1, which includes the pine-covered mountains of Flagstaff and the farmland and desert around Casa Grande.
Politically, it is Democratic-leaning and fiscally prudent, with a strong streak of Western independence.
Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick, born and raised here, is the right fit for District 1.
In her first term, she has focused on the top issue for this recession-battered region: jobs.
Among the projects she champions are the Four Forest Restoration Initiative, which would combine a wood-products industry with tree thinning, and a land exchange for the Resolution Copper mining project near Superior.
Kirkpatrick's record includes fighting changes in veterans' coverage of service-related disabilities.
She is willing to buck Democratic leadership. She voted, for instance, against cap-and-trade and in favor of expanded support for the employment-verification system.
Kirkpatrick is a dramatic cut above her Republican opponent, Flagstaff dentist Paul Gosar, in her breadth of experience, command of issues and capability to serve in Congress. District 1 voters should send her back.
