Yes Ilagan is well liked as the youngest ever council person. He's had a big learning curve tho and I think he's bitten off more than he can chew in the Senate. He really has not made any ground breaking accomplishments for Puna though. 

While Ruderman has served the same amount of time, his accomplishments for Puna have been terrific, especially as he has had many obstacles to hurdle. To add to his time served in the senate, he is an accomplished successful businessman who we have come to know and trust that the constants are heard and worked for.  He has the maturity and know how that an older statesman should have for the Senate seat.