2012 PRIMARY ELECTION: ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 7
The Democratic primary race for Assembly District 7 pits an incumbent with a long political legacy against a political newcomer who says he is the better choice.
Assemblywoman Dina Neal is hoping for a second term in the heavily Democratic district. But first she will have to get by challenger Stephen Taylor.
The victor will face Republican Brent T. Leavitt in the general election.
Neal originally planned to run for the state Senate District 4 seat but changed her mind.
"I will have more time to work on issues," she said. "I had an interesting (first) session, and I was ready to go back for more."
Neal is the daughter of former state Sen. Joe Neal, D-North Las Vegas, who was District 4's senator for 32 years.
In her single term in the Assembly, she served on the Education, Transportation, Taxation and Government Affairs committees. Neal said she has kept busy in the community since, working on initiatives including updating the state's teen pregnancy plan and an "economic gardening" plan to help businesses through mentoring with more experienced business owners.
"I've remained consistent," she said. "I know this district and I have a record of service."
Neal is a graduate of Southern University Law Center and was awaiting the results of her bar exam.
Taylor said Neal hasn't done enough for the district since she was elected.
"I was one of the people who voted for her," he said. "She didn't get the things done we needed."
Taylor said Neal confused voters by first deciding to run for District 4, then changing her mind.
"It was disappointing," he said. "They just weren't sure about her then."
If elected, he will focus on increasing parental involvement in district schools and bringing in new businesses by spreading the word about the district's available warehouse space and infrastructure, he said.
Taylor also said he has proved his dedication to improving the lives of those who struggle in the district, serving on the board of directors for a nonprofit that provides a safe house for underage victims of sex crimes.
He holds a master's degree in environmental safety and health management.
ASSEMBLY DUTIES, PAY
Assembly members pass legislation, review, amend and approve the state budget submitted by the governor, and review the performance of state agencies. They serve two-year terms. Candidates who win in November will be paid $8,777 for serving in the 2013 Legislature. They also receive a living allowance of $154 a day. Those who live more than 50 miles from the Legislature get another $736 a month in supplemental living allowances.
LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL
