In the race for New York State Attorney General, all of the candidates are highly impressive. But for Latinos, one candidate has special resonance.

Eric Schneiderman (D) represents District 31 in the State Senate, where he has repeatedly demonstrated a willingness to defend vulnerable individuals and communities.

In 2007, when the state announced that immigration status would not be a barrier to obtaining a driver's license, Schneiderman argued in support of this public safety approach, one that would have translated into fewer vehicular accidents, reduced premium costs associated with uninsured drivers and better all-around safety.

More recently, the senator led the fight to restore judicial discretion for low-level, nonviolent drug offenders in need of treatment for addiction. As critics spewed overheated rhetoric, Schneiderman was the voice of reason. He emphasized the disproportionate impact of mandatory sentencing on black and Latino communities and championed reform of this legacy of the Rockefeller drug laws as a common sense, 21st century criminal justice policy.

Senator Schneiderman has been a strong advocate on other matters of justice. He introduced a bill to count prisoners in their counties of origin instead of where they are imprisoned. This would allow for accurate data and the drawing of fair and equal districts.

He also introduced legislation that would bar the rejection of innocence claims on technicalities. This would prevent innocent individuals from languishing in prisons, as Fernando Bermúdez did for 18 years for a murder he did not commit.

Schneiderman is smart, decisive and fearless. That is the bold leadership we need at the attorney general's office. On Sept. 14, we urge voters to support Eric Schneiderman.