GOP candidate Dave Schmidt for state Senate in District 44

A STUBBORN economic downturn has turned the most progressive voices into deficit hawks and opponents of new taxes going forward. Former state legislator Dave Schmidt was already there four years ago, when he lost his Senate seat in southwest Snohomish County's 44th District.

The Times endorsed Schmidt in 2006, and he is still the choice among three candidates trying to deny Democratic state Sen. Steve Hobbs a second term.

Schmidt had no need to reinvent himself. He was a steady Republican lawmaker for eight years in the House and four years in the Senate, when he was swept aside by a Democratic tsunami.

Hobbs, of Lake Stevens, has been a bit of a puzzle to his own party. He voted against new taxes and against the state budget, and was part of a moderate-themed caucus. Party leaders did not discourage Lillian Kaufer, who ran in 2006, from challenging incumbent Hobbs. Republican challenger Ryan Ferrie, a Lynnwood business owner, would be learning on the job.

Washington's economic conditions do not allow lawmakers the benefit of an apprenticeship. They need to arrive for a long session ready to work and make tough decisions. Schmidt is a seasoned veteran, prepared to contribute.