Commentary by Eugene Paslov: Who's best qualified to represent CD 2?

I watched the debate recently for the 2nd Congressional District and was struck by several factors.

The Reno Gazette-Journal political reporter, Ray Hager, scored the debaters; he judged Mark Amodei (R) with a "B" performance, Tim Fasano (AIP, American Independent Party) with a "D+," Helmut Lehmann (NP, non-partisan) with a "C+" and Kate Marshall (D) with a "C" grade. Mr. Hager gave his reasons. They were not unreasonable. But I suggest that there are some other factors one should consider.

I liked Mr. Lehmann's responses. He was clear and articulate, with a good understanding of the role of government in working with business to begin attacking our economic problems. I would have given him a "B" for his debate presentation. However, his "NP" designation suggests he may lack the organizational structure to get elected; or, if elected, he'd have no clout to make changes. He'd be more effective in one of the more traditional parties and certainly would have more clout.

Mr. Fasano came across as an ideological conservative, bitter, self-righteous. He even went so far as to suggest that he was more conservative than the party he represented. Mr. Fasano is also the epitome of the angry, anti-government rambler who says little, loudly. I gave him an "F."

Mark Amodei has been a decent, intelligent, independent political player. He did a good job in the state Senate until he started to jockey for a better political position. I thought he tarnished his reputation with his mining exploits. Then he began his relentless pirouette into the arms of the right wing. I was most disturbed when Mr. Amodei tried to justify signing an "anti-tax pledge." It borders on political stupidity. "No new taxes " will cause greater hardship for all. Such a pledge will not help the middle class.

The former CD2 representative did much the same thing when he went to CD 2. He campaigned as an independent. He then became part of the "just say NO" Washington crowd and into the pockets of the Tea Party and its big-money backers. If we send Mr. Amodei to Washington, he'll do the same. Like a puppet on a string. Nevada deserves better. We don't need another right-wing puppet. Mr. Amodei = a "C-."

Kate Marshall is not as accomplished a speaker as Mr. Amodei, but what she says is intelligent and thoughtful. She understands government; she comprehends finance; and she is concerned about jobs, the lives and well being of her constituents. She will fight for them. I'll go for a real independent fighter every time. She's an "A" candidate. I'll vote for Kate. I encourage you to do the same.

• Eugene T. Paslov is a board member of the Davidson Academy at the University of Nevada, Reno, and the former Nevada state superintendent of schools.