17TH DISTRICT RACE In debate, 2 pledge a new era

The candidates met for one of a series of 15 debates.
By DAVID SKOLNICK
VINDICATOR POLITICS WRITER
YOUNGSTOWN -- Democrat Timothy J. Ryan and Republican Ann Womer Benjamin each say their election to the 17th Congressional District seat next month would create a new era in an area that has seen more than its fair share of political corruption.
The two candidates met yet again Thursday for one of a series of 15 debates between them. This one was at the Jewish Community Center and sponsored by the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Youngstown Area Jewish Federation and the Northside Citizens' Coalition for Community Development.
"We are able now to change our image, convert our economy and move the Valley forward for the first time in many, many years," said Ryan, a state senator from Niles. "We've had selfish politicians; those who were more interested in feathering their own nest."
Womer Benjamin, a state representative from Aurora, said she can "bring a fresh start that is not tarnished by the past. I will work hard to make our dreams become reality."
Traficant
James A. Traficant Jr. of Poland, the most prominent Mahoning Valley politician found guilty of corruption in recent history, is an independent candidate in the 17th District race. Although Ryan and Womer Benjamin made mention of the area's corrupt past, neither mentioned Traficant.
Jim Bunosky, Traficant's campaign manager, stood outside the JCC before the debate handing out a letter he typed in support of the former eight-term congressman who is serving an eight-year federal prison sentence for bribery, racketeering and tax evasion.
The letter touted Traficant's past accomplishments and key issues he supported while he was in office.
"Thank you, Mr. Traficant, for talking the talk and walking the walk," the letter concludes.
Candidates' focus
As they have in previous joint appearances, Womer Benjamin focused on her years of experience and her political access to leading state and national Republicans. Ryan said he is the best candidate because of his energy, passion and connection to the Mahoning Valley.
The pair were asked to discuss their most courageous vote.
Womer Benjamin said it was her decision to be one of two Republican state House members to cross party lines five years ago to oppose the abolishment of Affirmative Action. By siding with the Democrats on the issue, the measure, which needed 60 votes to pass, failed, Womer Benjamin said.
Ryan said his opposition to legislation to label 13-year-old sex offenders as sexual predators was his most courageous vote.
"My colleagues told me 'to shut up and vote for it' or [Republicans] would run 30-second ads against me" about the issue, Ryan said. A Republican ad that began running on local TV stations last week mentions that vote.
"I stood up because it was the right thing to do and I hope the 30-second ads don't hurt my candidacy," he said.
Other debates
More than 200 people attended the debate. About three-quarters of them left the JCC after the congressional debate and did not bother to stay for a series of other candidate debates.
As it turned out, four of the scheduled debates were held with only one candidate as the other candidate in those races opted not to appear.
Only two other debates were held -- for the 60th Ohio House District between state Rep. Sylvester D. Patton Jr., a Democrat, and Republican William Sicafuse; and for Mahoning County Probate Court between Judge Timothy Maloney, a Democrat, and Republican Maureen Sweeney.
skolnick@vindy.com