Democratic Rep. Janet Mills is as tough as they come.

Part of a powerful political family, which includes high-ranking Democrats and Republicans, we imagine that Mills earned her political stripes early. Her brother Peter Mills is an exceptional member of the House from Cornville and her sister, Dora Mills, is the director of the state’s Bureau of Health. Brother Paul Mills writes an Inside Maine column, titled “Past and Prologue,” for the Sun Journal.

But it is her performance for the past two years representing Farmington in the State House that has earned her our endorsement.

Mills is the former district attorney for Franklin, Androscoggin and Oxford counties. She’s a member of the Judiciary, Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee and also sits on the House Rules and Ethics committees.

She’s has the ability to reach across party lines, even during times of deep acrimony, to get things done. Much of her work in Augusta has centered around reforming the state’s legal code. She has a strong record on women’s issues, law enforcement and supporting small businesses.

Mills is being challenged by Republican Lance Harvell, whom she defeated by fewer than 200 votes in 2002. We predict a bigger win this time for Mills.

The Sun Journal endorses Janet Mills in House District 89.