Area voters will be deciding on three state Supreme Court justices when going to the polls starting Saturday for early voting.

Truly, however, there is only one race. Both the Hon. Gerald J. Whalen and the Hon. Deborah Haendiges received the endorsement of the Democratic and Republican parties. They both are excellent choices as the Bar Association of Erie County issued an “outstanding” rating for Whalen and a “well qualified” for Haendiges. Both deserve your vote.

Judge Diane Devlin, the Democratic candidate, also is seeking re-election. The Bar Association of Erie County, the Minority Bar Association and Women’s Bar Association have rated Devlin as “well qualified” and “highly qualified.” She has made her presence known in Chautauqua County and deserves your vote for the 14-year term.

Republican and Conservative candidate Gerard Greenan III is challenging Devlin and received a “not recommended” rating from the Bar Association of Erie County.

Agree or disagree?

The OBSERVER encourages letters to the editor regarding local and state races. Letters regarding the election must be submitted by 5 p.m. Oct. 29. We will be publishing letters on the election Nov. 2-3. Any questions can be directed to jdagostino@observertoday.com or 366-3000, ext. 401.