The Record Opinion Page Reads: "Kronlund Top Write-In Choice"

By Barbara Kronlund

"Court commissioner is the most qualified candidate in race to replace Platt" - The Record, Published Tuesday, October 15, 2002 (excerpt)

They will be asked Election Day to pick from a field of five, well-qualified write-in candidates. They also will be confused to see Platt's name on the ballot.

Because of her experience as Superior Court commissioner, voters should write in the name of Barbara Kronlund. It will be difficult for Kronlund to succeed, but county residents have proved before that they can handle a write-in candidacy -- and see beyond its obvious obstacles. In 1970, with more legal maneuvering than this 2002 judiciary race, James P. Darrah defied tradition and the odds to win a Superior Court seat. He finished first ahead of an indicted judge and three other write-in candidates.

Only Kronlund has the organization, support and background to defeat Platt at the polls. She is the lone write-in candidate who already has judicial experience.

Kronlund, 37, has a long list of endorsements, including the support of Presiding Superior Court Judge Richard A. Vlavianos.

She is opposed by an interesting and eclectic lineup of lawyers who want to be judges.

Aside from Kronlund, the other four write-in candidates are missing the experience on the bench that she brings to the race. She too has experience in the DA's office, serving as a former supervisor for the Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit. Kronlund also has worked with the California Judicial Education and Research Center and was appointed to two California Judicial Council advisory committees.

Kronlund heads up the California Judge's Association Criminal Law and Procedure Committee.

Kronlund, like the others in the write-in race, wanted an appointment to the bench -- but she's realistic. "I'm a Republican; it's not going to happen with this governor."

For each of the candidates, no matter how Nov. 5 turns out, this race has offered them a chance to bring their name before the voting public and the powers that be in Sacramento.

Even though Platt's name alone will be printed on the ballot -- and none of the others -- voters will have access to the five write-in names at their polling places. There will be a blank line below Platt's name. That's where voters should write in Kronlund's name.

Write in Barbara Kronlund. She's been serving in a judicial role since 1995 and has drawn praise for her work ethic, fairness and sense of ethics.

She's a known quantity, and a strong one. Make Barbara Kronlund the first successful write-in candidate since James P. Darrah in 1970.