To the Editor:

I have known Jennifer Stanton for 18 years. In the race for Isle of Wight Commonwealth’s Attorney, she brings important experience that the other candidate does not possess: She comes from a lifelong family tradition of meaningful public service, as does her husband, Michael.

Jennifer is the daughter of a Navy flight surgeon and deputy library director, is herself a veteran prosecutor and for many years has provided legal services to the economically disadvantaged in our county and elsewhere.

Michael is the son of a school superintendent and is himself a career Navy officer. Jennifer Stanton innately understands the selfless responsibilities, tireless commitments and thankless sacrifices of public service. She understands, too, that the office is not about her. It’s about accountability to the public trust.

While the technical factors are of extreme importance in criminal law (and Jennifer is unmatched in that regard), the “spiritual component” of public service is of equal importance and should be given due consideration.

Experience matters in the office of Commonwealth’s Attorney.

Jennifer Stanton possesses both unmatched criminal litigation experience and the “genes” to commit to public service.

I’m for Jennifer on Nov. 4. She gets it.

Robin Hiddemen

Smithfield