Keep Strickland around, we still need him.

For the last four years, Gov. Ted Strickland has been working hard for college students. That’s why we are endorsing him for this year’s gubernatorial race.

There’s been a lot of talk recently about Ohio’s failing economy and how Strickland is the man behind that. Actually, Strickland’s been setting a strong foundation for Ohio to succeed.

His two-year tuition freeze and 3.5 percent tuition cap kept higher education reasonable for many of us.

In order to ensure that every Ohioan has access to an education, he is making the 30-mile promise, which basically creates a statewide network of community colleges and universities that offer associates and bachelor programs within 30 miles of every Ohioan.

In addition, Strickland successfully expanded Medicaid last year to include over 2 million people in the state.

The polls show Strickland is behind his opponent, John Kasich, by about 6 points.

It’s going to be a tough battle against Kasich, but we believe in Strickland. Just like he believes in the promise of Ohio.

We are endorsing him because he proved that he is on our side, and we think this state should keep Strickland around for another four years.

The above editorial is the consensus opinion of the Daily Kent Stator editorial board.