By Bill Raack, KWMU
St. Louis, MO. – The two leading candidates for St. Louis County Executive in Tuesday's election have starkly different views on the condition of the county.
Democratic incumbent Charlie Dooley, who has held the seat since 2003, says he wants to build on the successes the county has had in recent years.
"Continuing to be the economic engine of the state and the region, continuing to produce jobs and opportunities for those and continuing for St. Louis County to be a great place to live and to work," Dooley said.
Republican challenger Joe Passanise, who is a college professor, says St. Louis County has fallen behind others in the region.
"Although we lost jobs, the 13,000 jobs and 630 businesses, these other six counties increased in jobs and businesses," Passanise said.
The Libertarian candidate for county executive, Theo Ted Brown, could not be reached for comment.
Both candidates appeared on KWMUs St. Louis on the Air program on Friday. To hear the show, click here.