As local elections go, this year’s contest for Chautauqua County district attorney is the most contentious of all the races. Both candidates Patrick Swanson and Jason Schmidt have indicated a strong passion and vision for the position.

That being said, both have made some errors that have become evident during this campaign. On the Swanson side, he was using his county work e-mail for political purposes. Schmidt, however, has been plagued with the issue of a 2009 resignation from the office he seeks. While he says the decision was due to personal issues, others have told this newspaper he would have been terminated if he did not step down.

These incidents are a piece to the election puzzle, but the bigger picture comes down to crimes and the increased opioid use and deaths that are a major county crisis. Swanson is quick to note that crime – for the most part – has decreased in the county. However, the caseload for the office remains high.

Schmidt’s campaign focuses on getting tougher on crime. Instead of taking plea bargains, which he notes happens far too often in the office, he believes more cases need to go to trial. It is an admirable stance – and one that can work against you if jurors and a judge have reasonable doubt.

Since previous office holder David Foley was elected to the position of judge, Swanson has been the acting district attorney. It has not been smooth sailing, but it has been commendable.

Schmidt, to his credit, has reached out to the community – those touched by crimes – in town hall meetings in Jamestown and Dunkirk to hear their concerns and what some solutions might be.

We appreciate the tenacity, time and effort put forth by both candidates. In a not-so-easy call, we give the nod to Swanson.