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BUTLER COUNTY — The candidates seeking the 4th Ohio Senate seat say the economy is the top issue for voters in the 4th Ohio Senate district that encompasses Butler County.

Democrat Kathryn Bridgman, 57, of West Chester Twp., is opposing incumbent Republican state Sen. Gary Cates, 52, of West Chester Twp., who is seeking re-election to a second and final four-year term in the Ohio Senate.

"People are concerned about the state of the situation aggravated with what's going on with Wall Street," Cates said. "We're coping with difficulties due to a sluggish economy."

Cates also said that school reform, which includes funding and accountability/performance measurements, and energy issues are affecting Butler County.

Bridgman, a first-time office seeker, said the economy as well as health care and education, were the district's top issues.

"I think we're at the point where we cannot ignore sick people who die from a lack of medical care in Ohio," she said. "We have to take care of that because basic needs are not being met."

She said students should have the opportunity to pursue higher education if they choose. "It's possible to do without raising taxes," she said. "We can't address business needs only and ignore people."

Bridgman said she'll bring a business background from her 30 years experience in broadcasting.

"We have to look at how we treat people and we need to hold companies accountable for tax breaks they receive."

Cates said he brings three things to the table — "knowledge of the issues, knowledge of the district, and a record."

Cates said his top priority would be getting the economy going again.

"We have to be doing things to grow the economy and anything we can do to attract business," Cates said. "One local economy can hurt the rest of the economy and I'm concerned about that."

Bridgman said her top priority would be tax reform to ensure everyone pays their fair share, not just the middle class.

"I want to get to those people and companies who are not paying their fair share or who are getting tax cuts and not creating jobs," she said.