Change versus experience was a major part of the presidential election this year, until both party’s vice presidential nominations flipped that argument on its head and nullified its importance.

The congressional ballot gives Ames voters a similar dilemma. In the Senate we have four-term Democrat Tom Harkin and challenger Christopher Reed. In the House we have six-term Republican Tom Latham and challenger Becky Greenwald.

Congressmen face two challenges this year: From Democrats who are fed up with an ineffective Congress that could not stand up to the president, and from Republicans who are seeking to regain control of the majority lost two years ago.

But Harkin shouldn’t have anything to worry about. Harkin has helped Iowans as the chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, which helps biofuels programs such as those at Iowa State and brings us closer to energy independence. He supports students by increasing the funding and availability of Federal Pell Grants for college students. He has also represented his nationwide constituency admirably, by voting to expand gay rights, repeal the Patriot Act and shut down Guantanamo Bay prison.

Christopher Reed is not suited to take Harkin’s seat this November. Reed is a Navy man and a small-business owner, which give credit to his cause. However, his stance on issues are little more than the Republican Party line and show little conviction or personal motivation.

At a debate earlier this month, Reed charged Harkin with wanting to “provide aid and comfort to terrorists,” later implying some of the senator’s speeches and policies were treasonous. If nothing else, this public display proves Reed is more concerned about partisan bickering than how he can serve his state and his country.