Our Decision 2012 coverage continues with a look at the legislative race in Nebraska’s District 31, where both candidates are running for state senator for the first time.

Rick Kolowski may be a first-time candidate for state Legislature, but he is no stranger to the people of District 31. He has a long history with the Millard School District, having spent 41 years in education.

“I think the longevity I've had in the community, four decades as far as my work in the Millard Public Schools, 38 years there and running Millard West High School as principal, graduating 6,000 kids over 15 years, there's a lot of connection with the community that I've had for a long time."

One of Kolowski's main goals is keeping the American dream alive for all who seek it after a 10-percent drop in the middle class over the last several years. "A very good economy right now in Nebraska, a lot of things are taking place and happening in a very positive way. We need to keep building that, creating the jobs and bringing in the industries and the jobs for our population."

His opponent, another first-time candidate in Acela Turco, is also concerned with job growth. "I would go to the table as a business owner, knowing what those challenges are and we need businesses to grow because people need jobs. It's that simple."

As a mother of two, she's also concerned with education. "I want people to know that I'm part of this community, I love living here, I love raising my family here, I think Nebraska is the best place to raise a family."

Turco would also like to lower taxes. "Let's look at how state government is spending our money. It's our money and I want to make sure that state government works efficiently."