Letters submitted by BDN readers are verified by BDN Opinion Page staff. Send your letters to letters@bangordailynews.com
Maine voters are facing crowded primaries for the governor’s race, at a time when I think the stakes couldn’t be higher. Here’s why I’m excited to vote for Secretary of State Shenna Bellows in the Democratic primary.
Some Democrats wonder whether to focus more on affordability issues or threats to democracy, whether to support candidates with values we’re passionate about or practical experience in government. Supporting Shenna Bellows doesn’t force me to make those either-or choices. I believe Shenna has both leadership experience and the values that make her my first choice to fight for a fairer economy and a strong democracy.
I met Shenna in 2017, when she was a state senator, after being executive director of two statewide nonprofit organizations. Now she’s Maine’s first woman secretary of state, running a large state agency.
Her personal background is even more compelling than her resume. She grew up in a Hancock County family that struggled to meet their basic needs for stable housing and healthcare. Affordability isn’t a talking point for her, she’s lived that challenge.
Shenna Bellows is on the front lines protecting our democracy. She stood up to Trump’s demands to turn over voters’ sensitive personal data. She’s working every day to keep our elections safe and secure.
We don’t have to choose between a focus on affordability or democracy, between governing experience or strong Maine values. Shenna is the candidate we can all feel good about from every angle. Please join me in supporting Shenna Bellows for governor.
Sara Salley
Stockton Springs