Diane Watson for Congress

The voters of the 32nd Congressional District face a difficult choice in the April 10 special election. None of the candidates on the ballot measure up to Rep. Julian Dixon, who died in office in December after more than 20 years of masterfully representing a hugely diverse area that includes the Crenshaw district, Koreatown, the neighborhoods around USC, Culver City, Baldwin Hills, Mar Vista, Ladera Heights, Leimert Park and Cheviot Hills.

Though predominantly black, the district is increasingly becoming Latino and Asian. While largely middle-class and affluent, it is also home to many working-class families and poor senior citizens. The competing constituencies, including a sizable number of white voters, require an inclusive coalition builder. The best candidate in this field is former state Sen. Diane Watson.

Watson, 67, recently back from a stint as U.S. ambassador to Micronesia in the Clinton administration, demonstrated during 20 years in the California state Senate that she understands how government works. She got things done whether Republicans or Democrats were in charge in Sacramento. Before term limits forced her out of the state Legislature, she was aided by a capable staff. If elected, she should keep Dixon’s experienced Washington staff and follow his example.

She is not the only familiar Democrat among the 18 candidates vying to replace Dixon. State Sen. Kevin Murray (D-Culver City), 41, has a family history in politics that helps him, but he has shown lapses in political and personal judgment that are worrisome.

Big-money contenders also include Los Angeles City Councilman Nate Holden and civil rights lawyer Leo James Terrell, neither of whom displays the contemplative qualities needed to be effective in Congress. Businessman Philip Lowe, a political newcomer, touts an appealing common-sense message of fiscally sound and compassionate government, but he needs political seasoning before he’s ready for Congress.

Republican Noel Irwin Hentschel has done admirable charity work but is not deeply familiar with the current needs of the vast district. Because the 32nd District is a Democratic stronghold, the April 10 election is expected to determine who will go to Washington. The Times endorses Diane Watson.