Republican Chuck Blasdel and Democrat Charles Wilson are prioritizing tax reform and job market growth in their race to represent Ohio’s 6th District in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Blasdel, a financial adviser and the speaker pro tempore of the Ohio House of Representatives for the 1st District, said his three terms in the House make him a strong candidate for representing Southeast Ohio.

Wilson, who represents District 30 in the Ohio Senate, said he thinks he is well prepared for a position at the U.S. House because of his experiences as a businessman and a legislator, which have helped prepare him for the realities of Southeast Ohio.

“One of the biggest problems is that so many educated young people will have to leave for lack of job opportunities in the area,” Wilson said.

Wilson wants to create more job opportunities in coal and ethanol plants in the region. If Southeast Ohio takes advantage of its natural resources, more jobs will be available, he said. Maintaining a strong national defense system, lowering taxes and decreasing regulations on small businesses are among Wilson’s other priorities for District 6. “I would like to have the chance to go to D.C. and help America get back on the right track,” he said.

Blasdel said he is the right choice for meeting the needs of Southeast Ohio because they are similar to the concerns and issues of the district he is serving. Like Wilson, Blasdel wants to target tax reform and new job development.

Blasdel said he also would support legislation to help improve health care for Ohio’s seniors.