The legislative veteran meets the newbie in this race. Voters in this district should stick with the tried and the true: State Rep. Elaine Schwartz. An attorney who was elected to the Legislature in 2006, Ms. Schwartz, 69 and a Democrat, has brought a wealth of experience to Tallahassee. In addition, she has been a successful advocate for seniors, small business owners, condo dwellers and other constituents in this district.

Through bills she initiated or sponsored, thousands of new slots opened up in the state’s Nursing Home Diversion Program, which lets the disabled elderly stay in their homes or in assisted living facilities; small-business owners who run into trouble can pay lower legal fees; and people who have long-term-care insurance policies are entitled to certified-mail notification to a second address of policy cancellations — a nod to Florida’s second-home owners.

Ms. Schwartz’s Republican opponent in this race is Elizabeth “Libby” Eddy. Ms. Eddy, 31, is a steward on private yachts. She says deregulation will help small businesses prosper and that the state should “cut excessive programs” other than education and public safety. Ms. Eddy would do well to delve into the specifics of the pressing issues facing the district, and the state. That way, she can be better prepared for another potential run. After all, Ms. Schwartz is term-limited and, if victorious this time, will be serving her final two years in the House. For District 99, The Herald recommends ELAINE SCHWARTZ.