Warren County voters have already had their say once this year in the race to be the next Warren County District Attorney after Rob Greene chose not to run for re-election.

Cody Brown, the county’s first assistant district attorney, received 2,356 (55.5%) of the 4,242 ballots cast by county Republicans earlier this year while Casey Strickland, the county’s second district attorney, received 1,886 votes. The pair square off again on Tuesday after Strickland secured enough write-in votes during May’s primary to earn the Democratic Party’s line on the November election ballot.

A choice is always a good thing, in our opinion, and in this race county voters are in a no-lose position. Both Brown and Strickland have proven themselves as worthy successors to Greene. Both candidates have prosecuted difficult cases, including child sex cases that seem far too prevalent in our community. Brown’s proposal to create a WRATH (Web Response Against Traffickers and Harmers) unit is something we hope helps protect children from online exploitation by more quickly identifying and capturing those who prey on children through digital means.

If elected, Brown told the Times Observer earlier this year he plans to enhance collaboration between the District Attorney’s Office, law enforcement, schools, and community organizations, emphasizing education and support for the community. He advocates for initiatives like diversion programs, mental health support, and job training to help individuals rebuild their lives and reduce recidivism. He also identifies the need for increased staffing and resources, proposing the addition of a county detective to address the growing number and complexity of criminal cases.

Strickland told the Times Observer earlier this year that, if elected, she aims to expand access to community resources for victims. She pointed to the Warren County Children’s Advocacy Center as an example of a program that has played a vital role in prosecuting cases involving child sexual abuse. Her platform includes advocating for strict penalties for violent criminals, particularly those who target vulnerable individuals. Strickland said she supports diversionary programs for nonviolent offenders and juveniles, emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment.

We wouldn’t be surprised if Tuesday’s election results are similar to the results of the Republican primary in May. But Warren County residents should be comfortable that whichever of the current assistant district attorneys wins Tuesday’s election, prosecutions in the county are in capable hands.