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Everything Mainers need to know to vote in the 2020 election
This year, Mainers will pick a president, decide three other federal races and turn over a new Legislature. Between absentee ballots and social distancing requirements at polling places due to the COVID-19 pandemic, voting will be different during this consequential election.
We’ve been asking you all year about the subjects you care about. We used those responses to ask pointed questions of the candidates. The result is this voter guide, which distills the positions of top-tier candidates while putting questions to every candidate for Maine’s 186 state legislative seats.
Here is everything you need to know before casting your ballot in the 2020 election.
Type in your address to find your candidates and where many of them stand on the issues.
Mills campaigned in 2018 on a pledge to not increase taxes, which her campaign has repeated in this race. As governor, she has been able to sharply hike state spending and preside over record reserves without tax increases because of a massive amount of federal COVID-19 aid. She backed down from a 2021 plan to tax federal COVID-19 loans as income after pressure from Republicans and business groups.
Her most recent spending bill raised the amount of retirement pension income exempt from income tax from $10,000 to $35,000 by 2025, which would mostly benefit families in the top 20 percent of income-earning households, the liberal Maine Center for Economic Policy said.
During the governor’s tenure, the state has funded K-12 education and revenue sharing to cities and towns at long-unmet statutory levels and expanded property tax relief programs. She allowed a Republican-led bill to pass that will freeze property taxes for Maine seniors who enroll every year, a program criticized by some cities and towns for administrative burden.
Costs and inflation
Mills’ signature response to high costs was a round of $850 relief checks to most Mainers, which was included in a $1.2 billion spending package passed in March. The governor has enshrined other, smaller aid programs more squarely aimed at energy prices.
Energy
The governor began her first year in office by setting several climate goals, including reducing emissions by 80 percent and getting 100 percent of electricity from renewables by 2050.
This came with a large expansion of incentives that led to a fast solar boom in Maine. But the program saw rising costs because contracts were linked to global energy prices, leading Mills and lawmakers to pass a bipartisan fix aimed at reducing volatility this year. She has supported offshore wind development in the Gulf of Maine despite protests from fishermen.
She broke with progressives on some issues, including by advancing the Central Maine Power Co. corridor and shielding it from legislative challenges until it was rejected by voters in 2021. In 2019, she also opposed a carbon tax bill sponsored by several leading Democrats.
Health and welfare
Mills ran on implementing Medicaid expansion and did so in the first days of her tenure, also reversing Medicaid work requirements that he pushed for. Enrollment has more than doubled since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic to 95,000 as of July. Maine saw the largest drop of any state in the share of people without health insurance between 2019 and 2021, though the rate remains below all other New England states.
The COVID-19 pandemic dominated Mills’ first term. The state’s health and economic response won praise from conservative economists tied to former President Donald Trump, although legislative Republicans grew tired of the orders governing the pandemic and later tried to strip her emergency powers. Maine was among the first states to impose a vaccine mandate for health care workers, a step that was controversial but backed by health care groups.
Abortion
The governor is a longtime supporter of abortion rights. She signed bills during her first year in office that expanded access by allowing Medicaid to pay for abortions and letting health professionals other than physicians perform them.
Since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned federal abortion rights, Mills has leaned into the issue, She issued an order barring Maine from participating in other states’ criminal investigations on abortion and said she is investigating whether or not the Maine Constitution already shields abortion rights. If not, she may propose an amendment enshrining them, although legislative Republicans will likely have the votes to block it.
Education
The aid-fueled surplus allowed Mills to both increase the state’s share of K-12 education funding and institute a $20 million free community college program for recent and upcoming high school graduates that she wants to continue. This year, she signed a bipartisan expansion of a tax credit targeted at student loan debt, providing up to $25,000 in lifetime relief per recipient.
National studies have shown students have lost academic ground during the COVID-19 pandemic, which at first led schools to close to in-person learning. Results in Maine during the Mills era are less clear, since the state did not release standardized test scores last year, citing an assessment change.
Campaign finance
Mills has been the fundraising leader in the race from the beginning, raising $3.9 million as of mid-July. She has been more reliant on out-of-state money, getting $1.1 million from those sources. The dominant outside group spending to boost her is the Democratic Governors Association.
Hunkler’s website says he wants to lower property taxes by increasing the homestead exemption and raise taxes on secondary and seasonal homes. He would decrease taxes on businesses in exchange for higher salaries and more benefits.
Costs and inflation
He would consider a gas tax increase from May to November to capitalize on tourism and fund a gas tax cut for the remainder of the year. He was skeptical of the $850 relief checks, telling Spectrum News Maine that road repairs should have been prioritized.
Energy
Hunkler told a public-access show that he opposed the CMP corridor because it would cross public land, calling Maine’s environment “one of our biggest assets.” He advocates for having cities and towns manage funding to foster “energy independence” at the local level.
Health and welfare
The semi-retired family doctor says there should be “some type” of universal health coverage. He is skeptical of the established medical system, arguing that a culture of “disease maintenance” includes an overreliance on prescription drugs. He says pharmaceuticals have a role in mental health treatment, but that group and retreat therapy should be expanded.
Hunkler opposes COVID-19 vaccine mandates and told the Portland Phoenix he has never gotten a flu shot, including after it was recently required by his employer.
Abortion
Hunkler has indicated a pro-abortion rights stance, saying “the government should have no jurisdiction over my body” and likening it to his stance against vaccine mandates.
Education
Hunkler says the educational system is "failing" children and leading teachers to burn out. Curriculum should be balanced between testing and practical learning such as simple repairs. He backs student loan forgiveness for teachers and aides who work in schools for at least five years and says more male teachers are needed.
Campaign finance
Hunkler largely gathered the 4,000 signatures needed to make the ballot himself. He is not accepting donations and has given his campaign just over $2,000.
LePage entered office in 2011 by signing a budget that included the largest income tax cut in Maine history. But he alienated his party with later plans to cut income taxes further and offset that with an increase and broadening the sales tax, also trying unsuccessfully to tax nonprofits and eliminate revenue sharing to cities and towns. The latter program was held at 2 percent of state tax revenue for most of his tenure, below a legal goal of 5 percent.
Costs and inflation
LePage pushed for a temporary gas tax suspension when fuel prices rose sharply in early 2022. He also opposed the $850 relief checks sent by the Mills administration to most Mainers, saying the money should have been used to cap heating oil prices.
Energy
In the first year of his tenure, LePage set a lofty goal of reducing heating oil dependence, looking to natural gas and biomass. Calling Maine’s energy costs a main economic roadblock, he spent virtually his entire tenure arguing unsuccessfully to lift a 100-megawatt renewable cap on hydropower. He supported and was paid by a lobbying firm to advocate for the Central Maine Power Co. corridor.
He is generally hostile to wind and solar development. In 2017, he called on his own utilities commissioners to resign over a solar policy decision. Approximately a year later, he issued an executive order blocking new wind permits. He has criticized Mills’ expansion of the solar policies he opposed during his tenure and now opposes an offshore wind farm proposed for 30 miles off the Maine coast and a transmission line planned in Aroostook County.
Health and welfare
Reining in welfare programs was perhaps LePage’s top priority. When he took office in 2011, there were 350,000 Mainers who received Medicaid, 25,000 children in the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program and 246,000 Mainers who received food stamps. By fall 2018 as he was set to leave office, those figures were at 261,000, 7,600 and 176,000, respectively, due to tightened eligibility standards and improving national and state economies.
LePage vetoed several legislative plans to expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act on cost grounds and resisted it even after Maine voters approved it in 2017. It went unimplemented through the end of his tenure, leaving the task eventually mandated by a judge to his successor.
He was sharply critical of the state’s management of the COVID-19 pandemic, including a vaccine mandate for health care workers, saying in late 2021 that the state should have prioritized a large public-relations effort instead. LePage said he would not have imposed some of the stricter measures and has questioned preventative measures aimed at children, saying the state should “let them all have it” and “that’s when you’re going to achieve herd immunity.”
Abortion
LePage is anti-abortion and spoke regularly at rallies on the subject during his tenure. During their two years in control of Augusta, pro-abortion rights Republicans joined with Democrats to kill conservative bills looking to rein in Maine’s relatively permissive abortion laws.
Since the U.S. Supreme Court ended federal abortion rights in June, LePage has said the subject is not a priority for him. He has said he has “no reason” to erode existing laws, but he has not ruled out signing restrictions into law and answered a questionnaire on the issue by saying abortion should be restricted and taxpayer money should not be used to fund abortions.
Education
LePage campaigned on focusing education money on classrooms and increasing vocational education. His major policy victory came when he signed a bill allowing charter schools in 2011. But lawmakers voted down a LePage-led effort to allow public money to go to religious schools in 2012. The former governor failed to reach consensus on broader proposals to reform the K-12 system, including one in 2017 that zeroed out funding for superintendents. Legislative Republicans bucked LePage on a student loan relief plan that year.
His 2022 agenda melds more ambitious proposals with nationalized conservative grievances with teaching on race and gender identity. LePage is proposing a voucher program that would allow parents to use shares of state funding to send children to religious or private schools, provide incentives for schools to consolidate and recommend “back to basics” curriculums.
Campaign finance
LePage raised $1.8 million as of mid-July. He has been more reliant on business contributions, getting nearly $264,000 from those sources. The dominant outside group spending to boost her is the Republican Governors Association, operating through the Maine Republican Party.
US House of Representatives 1st Congressional District
Candidates
D
Chellie Pingree
US House of Representatives 1st Congressional District
US House of Representatives 1st Congressional District
Priorities
Pingree, an entrenched seven-term incumbent in a reliably liberal district, is an organic farmer and former state lawmaker who focuses on agricultural issues, climate and the environment. She sits on the House panels overseeing appropriations and agriculture. Her most important role is in chairing a subcommittee directing environmental and conservation funding.
During this term, Pingree has been among the most liberal House members on economic issues but remains toward the middle of her caucus on others, according to VoteView.
Costs and economy
Pingree has voted for every major Democratic economic proposal that has advanced in the last two years, including the recently passed Inflation Reduction Act, which she called “real, life-changing legislation for the American people” while citing climate and health care benefits.
She backed President Joe Biden’s plan to forgive student loan debt and has blamed “Big Oil’s greed” for driving up fuel prices and co-sponsored a bill this year aiming to tax “excessive” corporate profits and send the money to Americans as a tax rebate.
Voting and elections
Pingree has supported House Democrats’ signature voting rights and campaign finance, which have not advanced past the chamber. She voted to impeach former President Donald Trump during both of his proceedings before the House, saying in 2021 that he “spent years spreading dangerous lies deliberately designed to erode trust in our institutions.”
Health care
The congresswoman has been a longtime supporter of universal health care, putting that cause at the forefront of her 2008 primary for the 1st District seat. She supported the Affordable Care Act as “a major step in the right direction” and now supports progressive “Medicare for all” proposals, co-sponsoring a string of bills on that topic, including one last year.
Abortion
Pingree is a strident abortion-rights supporter, backing a package of Democratic bills aimed at shielding access after the U.S. Supreme Court ended federal abortion rights in June. She also supports adding four justices to the high court as a response to conservative rulings, something that was opposed by a majority of Americans in a June poll.
Racial justice
Last year, Pingree voted for Democrats’ major police reform bill named for George Floyd, a Black man killed by Minneapolis police in 2020. The bill would ban chokeholds, “qualified immunity” for law enforcement and “no-knock” warrants.
Campaign finance
Pingree runs low-key campaigns because of her safe district, raising just over $400,000 between January 2021 and June 2022. She raised almost half of that from political committees, with labor groups among her largest contributors
R
Ed Thelander
US House of Representatives 1st Congressional District
US House of Representatives 1st Congressional District
Priorities
A newcomer to politics and a longshot against an incumbent, Allen served in the U.S. Army as a medical professional before transitioning to life as a family physician. He has made lowering taxes, reforming the Affordable Care Act and preserving the 2nd Amendment his main issues while criticizing Gov. Janet Mills’ handling of the coronavirus pandemic. He has raised $42,000 as of June and spent about 80 percent of that.
Costs and economy
The candidate has taken aim at “inflationary spending” and the rising national debt, also opposing enhanced unemployment benefits early in the COVID-19 pandemic.
He told the Lincoln County News that the U.S. needs to produce more oil and opposed the Inflation Reduction Act, saying it “raises Mainers' taxes during a period of record inflation.” (The measure has no direct tax increases on Americans making less than $400,000 annually, but experts have said effects on large companies could be passed along.)
Voting and elections
Thelander has said “too many people” are questioning the integrity of U.S. elections and “we need to do something about it.” He told WMTW that he supports voter ID laws and has not said whether former President Donald Trump should make a third run in 2024.
Health care
The candidate told the Lincoln County News that tort reform as a way of lowering health care costs. He has opposed COVID-19 vaccine mandates, calling the virus a threat but not one that should be used to change the country.
Abortion
Thelander respects “the sanctity of life,” he told the Portland Press Herald after the U.S. Supreme Court’s June decision to overturn federal abortion rights. He has advocated for supporting “women grappling with this life-changing decision, compassion toward our fellow citizens, and trust in this unique form of government as designed by our Founders.”
Racial justice
The candidate called a September news conference to blame policies that Pingree supports for an uptick of violent crime. He singled out Democrats’ 2021 police reform bill, which would ban chokeholds, “qualified immunity” for law enforcement and “no-knock” warrants, by saying it would take away tools that police sometimes have to use, WMTW reported.
Campaign finance
Thelander has raised more money than any Pingree challenger since 2010, bringing in $293,000 through June 30. That includes a $30,000 loan from the candidate. He has raised the vast majority of his money from individual donors, although he got $10,000 from a political committee backing a group of former Navy SEALs.
US House of Representatives 2nd Congressional District
Candidates
D
Jared Golden
US House of Representatives 2nd Congressional District
US House of Representatives 2nd Congressional District
Priorities
A Marine veteran of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, Golden was an aide to Sen. Susan Collins and a legislative leader before winning his swing district in 2018 and splitting it with former President Donald Trump two years later. He serves on the armed services and small business committees.
By many measures, he is the most moderate Democrat in the House. In a heavily polarized Congress, he has still voted with President Joe Biden just over 86 percent of the time in this Congress, according to FiveThirtyEight.
Costs and economy
Golden ran for office in 2018 by promising to preserve Social Security and Medicare while railing against Republicans’ tax-cut plan from earlier that year.
In office, his most notable party-bucking votes have come on spending. After backing past COVID-19 aid packages, he was one of two Democrats to vote against the American Rescue Plan Act, the $1.9 trillion bill that passed over his objections early last year, saying just a sliver was devoted to pressing needs. He later voted against Biden’s “Build Back Better” plan in the House, citing a tax break for the wealthy.
But he has championed the Inflation Reduction Act, citing health care, energy and deficit reduction provisions, holding a September news conference on it Sen. Joe Manchin, D-West Virginia, the key figure behind that measure after working to defeat Biden’s bigger plan in the Senate.
Voting and elections
Golden leans progressive on voting and electoral issues, supporting ranked-choice voting before he won the first election decided by the new system in 2018.
One of his first floor speeches in 2019 amounted to a debate with the chamber’s top Republican in which Golden championed H.R. 1, a signature Democratic bill that would expand voter access, requiring nonpartisan redistricting in states and increasing campaign finance disclosure provisions. He also backed another major voting-rights bill in 2021.
Golden voted to impeach Trump for his role in the Capitol riots of Jan. 6, 2021, saying he believed there had not been “a clearer case for impeachment, removal from office, and disqualification from holding future public office” in U.S. history.
Health care
Golden has tacked on this issue, running in 2018 on universal health care and co-sponsoring a “Medicare for all” bill the following year. When he was running for reelection in 2020, he backed off that stance in favor of a public-option plan like one backed by Biden. His official website now says the nation should move toward a universal system.
Abortion
The congressman is reliably pro-abortion rights, calling the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn federal abortion rights “a grave mistake” and saying Congress should codify abortion rights to a large an extent possible given Democratic majorities.
Gun policy
Golden was opposed by the gun-rights National Rifle Association and Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine during his first congressional campaign after a mixed record on guns in the Legislature. He has repaired his relations with them since then with a 2019 vote against expanding background checks to all gun sales, took a similar vote last year and opposed an assault-weapons ban in July.
Along with Sen. Susan Collins and the sportsman’s alliance, he helped negotiate a bipartisan gun, mental health and school safety package. It was opposed by the NRA, but it still gave him a B grade ahead of this election, while he got an A+ from the Maine group.
Campaign finance
Running competitive races in a swing district, Golden has had to be a prolific fundraiser. He is on record pace again, raising nearly $3.8 million through June 30, with the vast majority coming from individual donors. Labor groups and groups tied to House Democratic leaders are among his biggest contributors this cycle.
I
Tiffany Bond
US House of Representatives 2nd Congressional District
US House of Representatives 2nd Congressional District
Priorities
Bond is a Portland family lawyer running as a longshot candidate outside her home congressional district for the second time in four years. Her two campaigns have been based on Maine’s ranked-choice voting system and mostly run on Twitter, where the candidate urges supporters to give to charity. She describes herself as “a moderate, reasonable voice that will vote on good law that protects and balances.”
Costs and economy
The candidate calls climate change “the greatest threat to our society” and a major economic issue facing the country. She has said there are limits to how the U.S. can make transportation affordable while adding there should be “policy empathy” for those struggling with high costs. Bond criticized President Joe Biden’s student loan cancellation plan for not addressing the underlying issue of cost, saying interest on those loans should be eliminated.
Voting and elections
Bond has championed ranked-choice voting and said in a 2018 court filing that she never would have run in an election not using the system. She has railed against money in politics, rejecting donations for her campaign four years ago.
Health care
She has a “passionate dislike” for the Affordable Care Act, but says it should only be “replaced or modified with improvements.” Bond is also skeptical of Medicare for all because the concept "fundamentally functions like insurance," which she says “might not be the best model.”
Abortion
Bond pitches a pro-abortion rights stance based in being “pro-privacy,” calling it “an overreach of authority” for government to make health decisions for people. She criticized a bill from Republicans in 2018 that aimed to ban most abortions after 20 weeks.
Gun policy
The candidate says she “generally” favors the Second Amendment but has said gun rights should be limited for those who “lack capacity, have proven violent tendencies, or are just a careless jackass slinging weapons about.”
Campaign finance
Unlike the last, Bond has said she is accepting donations for this election, but she has not reported fundraising so far.
R
Bruce Poliquin
US House of Representatives 2nd Congressional District
US House of Representatives 2nd Congressional District
Priorities
Poliquin is a former investment manager and state treasurer who is running his sixth campaign since 2010. He served two terms representing the 2nd District from 2015 to 2019, serving on the financial services and veterans affairs committees during his tenure.
He was a reliable Republican vote in the House, sitting toward the ideological middle of his caucus, according to VoteView data.
Costs and economy
Poliquin pitches himself as a fiscal hawk, running in 2014 on supporting the orthodox budget plan of former House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wisconsin, and saying he wished it balanced the federal budget quicker. But he has treaded carefully on these issues in a graying district.
While has said he would support no changes to the Social Security or Medicare for current enrollees or people soon to be in the system while being open to hikes in the eligibility age, he backed a 2015 Republican plan targeting billions in Social Security savings and would have turned Medicare into a voucher system for new enrollees by 2024.
He backed Republicans’ tax-cut plan in 2017, saying while he was worried about potential increases in the national debt, he was “also concerned about our families who haven’t had a pay raise in 10 years.”
During this campaign, Poliquin has run on fighting high costs and inflation by reining in spending and “reopening” domestic energy production. (Domestic oil production is forecasted to hit a record high in 2023.)
Voting and elections
Poliquin opposed ranked-choice voting and cast doubt on the process after losing the 2018 election, suing the state unsuccessfully in a bid to stop the second round of counting. During this campaign, he has urged his voters to not be “intimidated” by the system.
In March, he refused to say whether or not President Joe Biden legitimately won the 2020 election. He also disagreed with “anybody impeaching somebody who’s supported by the people of the 2nd District” in a reference to Golden’s vote to impeach former President Donald Trump’s trial on inciting the Capitol riots of Jan. 6, 2021.
Health care
The former congressman ran hard against the Affordable Care Act in a Republican U.S. Senate primary in 2012. His stance softened a bit by 2014, with Poliquin telling News Center Maine it was “the law of the land” and he would work to improve it.
Shortly after arriving in Congress, he voted against a Republican repeal bid, saying the party should have a replacement plan. Two years later, he was the only member of the Maine delegation to back a Republican repeal-and-replace plan that health policy experts said would have allowed insurers to raise rates on people with pre-existing conditions to a degree that coverage would be unaffordable.
This year, he has tapped into other base issues in this subject area, including opposition to COVID-19 vaccine mandates.
Abortion
Poliquin is anti-abortion, describing himself as a “pro-life, traditional marriage Catholic” during his 2012 U.S. Senate campaign. In 2015, he voted for a ban on most abortions after 20 weeks into pregnancies. But he has backed off that a bit since the June decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to end federal abortion rights, answering an anti-abortion group’s survey by saying Congress should leave abortion access to the states.
Gun policy
Poliquin has a gun-rights record and was endorsed by the National Rifle Association in his 2014, 2016 and 2018 campaigns. He has also consistently gotten high marks from the Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine, though neither group has endorsed him in the 2022 election. He aligned with the NRA and House Republican leaders but against the alliance when he opposed the bipartisan gun, school safety and mental health bill that passed in June.
Campaign finance
By the time he finished his 2018 campaign, Poliquin had been involved in the two most expensive races in Maine history given the 2nd District’s national implications. This one is heading in that direction, with the former congressman raising $2.6 million through June. More than $493,000 has come from political committees. One of his biggest donors is Leonard Leo, an architect of the conservative judicial system who has a Mount Desert Island home.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
1. It’s an understatement that inflation and high costs are impacting all Mainers, no matter their income bracket, but I am most concerned about those on fixed incomes/the elderly. I would support pro-growth policies to expand Maine’s economy and lower energy costs. Taking another look at the cap the State has in place on hydro power could definitely be part of the solution. I'll work to lower costs every chance possible especially for rural areas of the State like Aroostook since our challenges are especially difficult due to transportation costs (the cost of diesel). Keep in mind, voting no on bad policy is as important as voting yes on good policy.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Since neither of our gubernatorial candidates support a change, I don’t envision a policy change anytime soon, so I’m not basing my campaign on this issue.
However, if the majority of Aroostook voters tell me they want to see a change in restrictions on late-term or tax-payer funded abortions, I would consider that. My goal is to represent the wishes and goals of the majority of Aroostook County constituents, especially on a subject as sensitive as this.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
I want to make it easier for people to afford homes in Aroostook County and we should not confuse Section 8 housing with affordable housing for all. I would continue to support trade education so that there are more individuals in the field to work on these projects. The labor shortage is a big part of the problem. Also, currently there are policies that prevent independent contractors from bidding on larger projects, which ultimately drive costs up. I would vote to remove those restrictions and open up the bidding process.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Some voters have asked whether their vote really counts. I explain it certainly does…that on Election Day, their opinion is as important as the President’s. Thanks to Maine’s paper ballot backup system, we can check any vote result. Maine has not used the faulty electronic machines that have caused problems in other states. Do NOT allow others to decide the outcome of a race by not going to the polls!
That said, I would like to see voter ID be required. The right and privilege to vote is one of our most sacred and proving citizenship is basic to the system. We must provide ID for simple things like flying on commercial airlines—anyone can get an ID, so it is not a hardship to make this requirement. This would secure that the results of a vote are determined by citizens only.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
The top policy would be making sure that funding goes directly into treatment beds so that people who want to get treatment are able to get it. Too often we hear stories of individuals who want treatment but are not able to find it. Also, we need to make sure that we have stiffer penalties in place for drug dealers. We are moving well beyond dealers making money on the backs of seriously addicted individuals; they are selling far more lethal drugs (opioids), including fentanyl, to the addicted and “recreational users”. This is why the death rate is climbing.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
It is clear that the lockdowns negatively impacted most students. Schools need to be allowed to focus on math, reading, writing and technology and not be teaching the extras right now. Parents also need to be brought into the discussion on what is the most important curriculum, as many feel their voice was lost during COVID. Parental involvement is key in determining what is taught as well as affording opportunities to support the education of their children.
Plans for a transmission line linking wind farms in Aroostook County to the regional grid are being eyed in Massachusetts as a potentially massive source of clean power. What should the region get in return from a developer before such a project moves forward?
The developer chosen should offer our region some type of benefit from the project such as a rate-payer relief program that would help lower/fixed income folks pay their energy bills. But since everyone is taking a hit with high power costs, the benefit should also spread to middle-income residents.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
Farming, logging, increasing the workforce, small business, economic development-- these common-sense priorities are what matter. The County comes first for me and always has.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
We need to ensure that every Mainer has adequate heat. I approach this from two angles. First, we should immediately extend Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) access and funding. HEAP is a supplement and is not meant to cover a family's total heating expenses. If the benefit amount does not increase, but actual heating expenses climb, it may as well be a loss in a desperately needed benefit. Second, we need to reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks by ensuring that county action programs have adequate staffing to prevent applicant backlogs and by making recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and Medicaid automatically eligible and enrolled through the Department of Health and Human Services.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Since 1994, Maine law has expressly guaranteed access to abortion services in the majority of cases. In response to the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, Governor Janet Mills signed an executive order to further defend access to abortion in Maine and to protect reproductive health care providers and their patients. Access to abortion is established in Maine's statutes, but not its constitution. The codification of such access is a top priority.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
I would promote the construction of more apartments and affordable housing, particularly in coastal and rural areas. Additionally, the state must amend Maine's housing rules to safeguard tenants. Creating new land banks so that counties and municipalities can more quickly foreclose on abandoned properties is also a priority because the funds could be utilized to finance housing for those with low and moderate incomes.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Expand voter registration access. This can be accomplished by automatically registering public high school students when they reach the age of 18 and by increasing online voter registration, which could be especially beneficial for our most rural and disabled citizens. Increasing voting access boosts democracy's accessibility.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Fund evidence-based local treatment with sufficient beds, prioritize diversion programs for low-level nonviolent drug offenders, and provide evidence-based wrap around programs for offenders leaving jail or treatment.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Eliminate the gap before it occurs. Expand access to high-quality early childhood education, provide wraparound services, and increase access to enrichment opportunities. For those who are already behind, with limited resources, I would focus on the oldest students with the least time left to catch up. I propose an expansion to the free community college grant program, allowing students with academic and socio-economic challenges an additional year, with the first year focusing on skill remediation, college/career readiness, and literacy at no additional cost to the student.
Plans for a transmission line linking wind farms in Aroostook County to the regional grid are being eyed in Massachusetts as a potentially massive source of clean power. What should the region get in return from a developer before such a project moves forward?
A Tax Increment Financing (TIF) deal to bring in additional revenue; land-lease payments to local property owners; guarantee to employ locals during construction and any subsequent maintenance projects as well as in any regional offices that may need to be established; equipment for Northern Maine Community College’s wind power technology program.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
First and foremost, I am a parent. Specifically, I am the parent of a child with disabilities. Some of his disabilities were caused by, and all of them exacerbated by a failure of local, state, and federal government. He was lead-poisoned by drinking water. My focus is to be an advocate and support for families and individuals the way I wish someone had supported and advocated for me and my family. Regardless of being elected or not, I will always stand up for what is right, defend those on the margins, and be a voice for my community–all of my community.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
The legislature has to stop passing laws and regulations that increase energy costs. Many times “feel good” legislation has unintended consequences.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I have and will continue to oppose any bills that support taxpayer funded abortions.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
The legislature has supported energy and building codes that increase construction costs. Mandatory labor agreements increase costs, these projects should be open bids to both union and nonunion contractors.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
While I have faith in my local election officials, many Mainers do believe there is an issue in the integrity of the system. All Mainers, regardless of where they live or who they support should have faith in our voting system.
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Voter ID.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
I believe our approach needs to focus on the 3 legged stool analogy. Education in our schools, tougher laws and strict enforcement of those killing our children, and affordable treatment and access for those wishing to get clean. We have “normalized” drug use and then wonder why we have an epidemic.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
I really can’t comment without knowing which studies you are referring to. I believe the government mandated lockdowns did more damage to our children. We shouldn’t be looking to the State to solve this issue. Parents need to be involved at the local school board level.
Maine is one of just two states that does not allow Sunday hunting. Would you support it? Outline any conditions for your answer.
This issue seems to come up every session, and every time the legislation is worded differently. I don’t know how I will vote until I see the specific legislation.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I have served 8 years in Augusta serving on the Transportation and Veteran and Legal Affairs Committees. I would like to continue the work on both those fronts as well as addressing the labor shortage, the impact of inflation on Mainers especially our elderly on fixed income. We shut down the entire State, mandated masks, forced vaccinations, etc during the pandemic. Why, when we are losing 53 Mainers per month to overdoses can’t we take immediate and drastic steps?
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
The policies that have been adopted in Augusta and Washington have played a major role in driving inflation and price increases that most Mainers cannot afford. This must stop now.
Additionally, we must immediately get able bodied Mainers, who are collecting government assistance, back to full time employment and allow our small businesses to recover and grow our economy.
Maine taxpayers should not be footing the bill for fuel sources that increase the overall cost of energy. As new bills are presented to the legislature, I will be reviewing their fiscal impact and opposing legislation that increases energy costs to Maine families.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Harder
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I have seen pregnancy sonograms and what these sonograms reveal is that it is a baby and not a blob of tissue as the abortion extremists have told us. I would immediately stop taxpayer funded abortions. I do not want my money used to stop the beating heart of a little boy or girl.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
We desperately need to expand the work force in the building trades so that more units can be built in a timely, cost effective manner. Increasing educational opportunities in the trades for high school students and post secondary students needs immediate action. There are many excellent career opportunities in the building trades that could be accessed by some individuals living on government assistance. As the economy grows, costs will naturally adjust. Over burdening the private sector with government regulations also drives up costs. Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) should not be imposed on building projects, as they serve to increase costs.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Voter ID would help insure continued voting security.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
This is a tragedy that has touched nearly every Mainer in some way. We must show our people the way to a life filled with a future of hope. Having a job, a safe place to live and the belief that your life has a purpose is a beginning. We must provide more assess to treatment when individuals are ready to turn their lives in a new direction.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
School Choice!! Every family should be allowed to choose the school that best meets their child's unique needs and gifts.
Maine is one of just two states that does not allow Sunday hunting. Would you support it? Outline any conditions for your answer.
When I served on the Legislature's Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Committee, the Sunday hunting issue was looked at. The overwhelming public opinion was in opposition to the concept. Many people testified that they would post their land if Sunday hunting became legal. Like the bipartisan majority of the committee, I voted in opposition.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
Maine has a citizen's legislature, meaning that we have other livelihoods outside of the Legislature. I believe my experience as a small business owner, former school teacher, wife, mother and grandmother gives me a unique focus. I want the Legislature to empower people to be their very best and to live a life filled with hope for a better future.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Get state spending under control. Require able bodied people to work.Do a better job helping the truly needy.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Harder
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
End Late term abortions
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Reduce regulations that drive up costs. We should look at what other states have done to see if they have found answers.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Not safe enough
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Voter ID
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Better Enforcement of current drug laws
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Foster more parental involvement in their children's education
Maine is one of just two states that does not allow Sunday hunting. Would you support it? Outline any conditions for your answer.
No, Sunday hunting will cause more landowners to post land reducing hunting opportunities
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
40 years of business experience employing people, 10 years Legislative experience, combined with 30 years in town government and local school boards.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
I encourage the State to make available funds for our seniors and low income citizens. I will continue to initiate funds for winterizing homes. I feel that with our natural resources, we should be trying to establish funds to heat more homes with firewood.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
No tax payers dollars used.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Create low interest loans for property owners, contractors, to encourage more remodeling and new construction of building units.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Voter ID
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
We need to spend more resources on education and stronger family units.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Continue to make sure that the state funds education at the 55%. Encourage funding for after school and summer educational classes.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
I am quite concerned about the rising costs especially to our citizens on fixed incomes. While I support pro-growth policies to expand Maine’s economy and lower energy costs, I would need to carefully review proposed policy changes. If they are going to raise costs for our hardworking Mainers, I will be in opposition.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
No change.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Affordable housing throughout the State of Maine is indeed in a crisis situation. Costs and the labor shortage continues to be problem. We need to remove any project labor agreements to encourage open project bidding as well as supporting trade education so more individuals are available to work on such projects.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
While I feel our voting system is safe and secure, I support requiring picture identification at the polls similar to other states across the nation.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Treatment, education, and prevention should continue to be our priorities. Funding for residential treatment centers is critical. Substance usage and mental health go hand in hand. We need to continue to fund much needed resources, including law enforcement, to educate and aid in the prevention of this crisis.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
The pandemic caused an educational hardship for our children. We need to focus on educational basics such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) subjects along with the trades. Parents and the schools need to communicate and work together to make sure our children are succeeding.
Between late 2021 and early 2022, Washington County saw six homicides in six months, with police blaming drug and mental health problems. What's your top priority in fighting violent crime?
I will work towards expanding our law enforcement personnel and continue to pursue Washington County having their own District Attorney.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
My experience professionally and politically has prepared me to continue to fight for common sense priorities such as small businesses and the jobs they create, our roads, broadband expansion, education, protecting our elderly, the substance-use crisis and ensuring rural areas continue to have access to quality health care.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Inflation is global in scope, and its drivers are largely out of our state’s control. However, we are not powerless to lower the cost of living here, and during my past two terms, I have done exactly that. For example, I supported increases to the homestead exemption and the property tax fairness credit to help people afford housing. We removed red tape for heating assistance and prioritized investments in weatherization. Low cost drug programs, income tax breaks for retirees and tax credits for working families are just a few efforts I have supported to lower our cost of living. Meanwhile, CMP’s owner Iberdrola is paying shareholders the highest dividends ever, and CMP and Versant are proposing yet more rate increases – I will pursue all options for reining in their corporate greed.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Easier
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Whether or not to have an abortion is a personal and medical decision that I do not believe should be subject to government interference. Pre-viability abortion and abortion necessary to preserve the life or health of the mother are currently legal in Maine, but disparities in healthcare access can have a bearing on this decision. Therefore, we must ensure – for everyone’s benefit – that our rural hospitals and healthcare centers have the resources they need to provide all types of healthcare services.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Housing shortages are affecting people’s wellbeing and our economy, especially in Hancock County. I have worked across the aisle to cut red tape and spur new home construction, expanded our property tax and rental cost reduction programs, and supported the largest investment in workforce housing in Maine history. Some of these efforts will have a near-term effect while others will take longer to make a difference.
Additional solutions could include incentivizing owners to keep their housing in year-round occupation rather than converting units to short-term rentals and adjusting first-time homeownership programs so that working Mainers can compete in this real estate market against large investment companies. All solutions need to be on the table for discussion in the next Legislature.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Maine elections are secure due to our use of paper ballots and a robust chain of custody and security system to protect them. Our clerks, their staff, and the tripartisan teams of poll workers all take their work seriously, and I am grateful for their efforts to ensure successful elections.
This term, I sponsored a law that establishes nonpartisan routine election audits and improves citizen access to information about election protocols, which passed the House and Senate unanimously. I also co-sponsored a law which allows independents to vote in primaries starting in 2024. I think the Legislature should send the question of whether or not to use ranked choice voting for state offices to Maine voters to decide.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
We need to focus on evidence-based prevention policies in order to limit substance-related deaths in Maine. Our Attorney General has secured funds from the drug company that intentionally targeted Mainers with certain addictive substances, and we can use these dollars to enhance the efforts of recovery networks around the state. We can also support continuing education for healthcare providers on addiction, pain management, and treatment and make the prescription drug monitoring program easier for providers to use.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Some students thrived in the remote-learning environment while others fell behind. School staff are best equipped to determine who needs additional support, like after-school and summer programming, and the Legislature can assure that these programs are properly resourced. Our students have varying interests and learning styles – I’m proud to have supported the first state investment ($40M) in high school career and technical education since 1998, which will train students for careers in the building trades, welding, automotive technology, nursing and more. Many of our recent high school graduates will be able to continue their education in these fields via our free community college pilot program, where educators can address gaps and equip these students for successful careers in Maine.
Gov. Janet Mills and the administration of President Joe Biden are pursuing a pilot offshore wind project in federal waters off the Maine coast. Do you support it and can it coexist with the fisheries industry?
We must protect our fishing industries and become more energy independent. Last year, I worked with lobsterman Rep. Billy Bob Faulkingham and other concerned fishermen to assure that no offshore wind projects can connect to the grid through state waters unless certain criteria are met. These include completing a plan that minimizes conflict between maritime industries and working with fishermen to identify what research questions need to be answered by the proposed pilot project. This moratorium passed unanimously due to our bipartisan efforts to find consensus. Since floating offshore wind is a newer technology developed by the University of Maine, it will be important to research what effect it has on wildlife and maritime industries before determining if it is right for us.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
As the State Senator representing most of Hancock County, my focus has been and will be listening to constituents here at home and working to find solutions to the challenges they face with my colleagues in Augusta. In my four years of service, I have done my best to work with anyone and everyone to find common sense and evidence-based solutions that benefit our region and state. Not every headline or campaign ad accurately describes the work that I do for you in Augusta, so please feel free to reach out to me to discuss what’s on your mind: nicole@grohoskiformaine.com or 207-358-8333. After all, we’re all in this together!
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
I have two eight-year-olds and our family’s grocery bills have doubled. I’ve heard from families in this district whose electric bills tripled in January. We may not be able to control global oil markets here in Maine, but there are things the legislature can and must do to reduce our costs.
Three important steps are to reign in the price gouging by the power companies, implement and strengthen laws capping and lowering prescription drug prices and help Mainers to weatherize their homes, lowering heating costs while also helping to meet our state’s climate goals.
We also need to fully fund and support the local and state programs that are helping Mainers, especially seniors on fixed incomes, deal with high heating costs this winter.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Easier
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
It’s not about making anything “harder” or “easier.” Abortion is a medical procedure and access to abortion is a basic right in Maine. I’ll always work to protect our rights and make sure reproductive health care is there where and when people need it, no matter where they live or how much money they make.
We also need to do more to invest in rural hospitals and health care centers and train, recruit and respect our health care providers in a broader way. My wife is a frontline health care worker and I’m proud to be endorsed by the Maine State Nurses Association.
Access to quality care should be a basic right for everyone in Maine.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Maine was already experiencing a housing crunch before the pandemic and things have only gotten worse. We need regulatory and zoning changes that make it easier to build housing for working class people. We also need direct investment.
I was disappointed that the governor vetoed a real estate transfer tax on properties sold for over $1 million that was passed by the legislature last year. Recently, more wealthy individuals have been moving to Maine and buying expensive properties. While we’re happy to welcome them, those purchases are driving up the costs for everyone else. We should make sure they pay what they owe and put that funding toward creating more affordable housing. The legislature should absolutely revisit that proposal or similar policies.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Maine has one of the highest voting participation rates in the country and some of the strongest laws ensuring that voters can register, cast a ballot and have their vote counted. We need to preserve and build on that foundation.
One policy that would help reduce some confusion and strengthen our elections is to put a constitutional amendment out to voters ensuring that ranked-choice voting is used in the same way for all elections. Right now it’s in place for general elections for Congress but not for state races. I don’t believe that’s what Maine voters intended when they twice voted for this democratic reform.
I believe the legislature should always seek to respect the will of Maine voters.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
I recently met with the dedicated folks who run Save a Life, a community recovery center in Lincoln. They’re doing incredible work on a shoestring budget. Many of the people they help are veterans.
We need to make sure that recovery centers and support networks have the resources to be there when people need them, reduce stigma and criminalization and increase access to treatment and health care.
My mother was a police psychologist for Orono and Old Town, and I know that while our first responders are doing important work dealing with the effects of the opioid crisis, it shouldn’t be their job to shoulder that burden.
We should also continue efforts to hold pharmaceutical corporations that have profited off creating the current crisis responsible for the consequences of their actions.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
When the pandemic began and my wife and I found ourselves homeschooling two first-graders, we suddenly had even more respect for teachers. We need to support students, teachers and staff better at every level.
I’m honored to be endorsed by the Maine Education Association and I was proud to work on the referendum in 2016 to increase state funding of local education to 55%. I’m glad we finally reached that mark last year.
I’m concerned that there will be a push to cut education funds and raise property taxes as federal pandemic funding ends and I want to work to make sure that doesn’t happen.
We should also make sure students and schools that most need additional support get it, continue tuition-free community college and increase support for higher education, including UMaine.
Maine is one of just two states that does not allow Sunday hunting. Would you support it? Outline any conditions for your answer.
I would be wary of any proposal to allow Sunday hunting and I believe the Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine and the Maine Professional Guides Association were right to oppose the bill heard by the legislature this year.
Maine is one of the few states to ban Sunday hunting and we’re also one of the few states to have implied access to land for hunters. These things go hand in hand. Sunday hunting could lead to more posted land or even increased calls for “reverse posting” laws in Maine, denying hunters access by default.
We also don’t yet know how legal action related to the new food sovereignty amendment to the state constitution will play out. Any law passed by the legislature could soon be pre-empted by the courts.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I grew up along the Penobscot River and I’m proud to have worked for more than a decade with many others to force the cleanup of mercury contamination. The owners of the chemical plant that dumped the toxin have now agreed to pay up to $267 million - the largest ecosystem-wide cleanup ever prompted by citizen action.
This is important to everyone who lives by or enjoys the river, but it’s also important because it shows what Mainers can do when we come together as a community and refuse to give up, even against wealthy and powerful interests.
That’s a lesson and a focus I want to bring to Augusta as we tackle everything from health care to energy costs, and as we work to protect the land and water from new threats like PFAS.
I know that positive change is possible when we work together.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
1. With our surplus we should find money to supplement the federal LIHEAP money to increase the benefit and to expand the coverage 2. continue for another year the very successful electric bill rebate program we passed earlier this year for small and medium sized businesses and 3.Consider another round of tax rebate relief checks to 95% of Maine families- as we successfully did earlier this year- depending on the available surplus.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Easier
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
We should pass legal protections to Maine providers who assist patients from out of state from any repercussions by the anti-choice state the patient is from.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Maintain funding for construction of low and middle income housing; give tax incentives to developers to build affordable housing and look at extending emergency rent relief with federal and state dollars.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Adopt a universal vote by mail system------- as well as extended hours for early voting----and allow people to opt out of mail ballots and cast their ballots in person if they wish. Provide funds to local clerks to help them better manage this process.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Maintain and strengthen outpatient treatment------- increase access to services for persons in smaller towns and rural areas--------- also look at a vastly expanded and statewide drug court program which has been successful at reducing recidivism for persons who particpate.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Fully fund public schools as we have done. Raise teacher and school staff salaries. Keep kids in school with appropriate health and safety precautions. Having kids out of school and learning remotely should only be used again in rare circumstances.
During the pandemic, homelessness has worsened in the Bangor area, a hub for regional services. What can the state do to improve conditions for this population?
Build more affordable housing, extend the emergency relief program, strengthen funding for outpatient substance abuse and mental health services AND we need to increase the number of treating beds at Dorothea DIx as a portion of this issue are the fact that many are untreated mentally ill people often with a dual diagnosis.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
Continue working to promote expansion of passenger rail service to Bangor and to western Maine to tie us both into Portland and Boston.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
As we head into the winter months, I know people are increasingly worried about inflation, outrageous energy prices and other increased costs — I hear it from neighbors in Knox County on a regular basis. Last winter, I watched as my own energy bill skyrocketed. The first step is to improve access to home heating help to those who are eligible. The second step is holding corporate utility companies accountable — I’m personally in favor of a publicly owned utility company to ensure consumers get the best deal. Either way, it is going to take all hands on deck to solve this crisis.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Easier
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Right now, abortion remains legal in Maine. As a state senator, I will work to protect and improve access to this fundamental right just like I did in the Maine House of Representatives. I stand ready to work with the Governor, health care providers and advocates to close any gaps that prevent Mainers from making their own reproductive decisions.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
There are many pots of housing money available for communities (nationwide, statewide, and via private organizations). We need to work with our communities to make sure we can integrate zoning and needed resources to build more affordable housing for workers, low-income Mainers, and our elderly.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Maine continues to be a leader in voter participation and election security. We should take great pride in the integrity of our free, fair and safe elections.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
As someone who has been on the ground in Knox County working to treat additions and save lives, this issue is deeply personal to me. I bet most Mainers could say the same — they’ve either lost someone close to them to the opioid epidemic or know someone else who has. These losses leave holes in our families, communities and workforce. We need to embrace innovative and evidenced-based policies that treat this disease and help people fully recover. We also need to look at the people who have profited off of this epidemic to hold bad actors accountable.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
We’re just starting to understand the toll of the pandemic on our communities, including our schools and students. Even if we don’t have all of the answers, there are some obvious paths to pursue. We should work with parents, school officials and school boards to see how the community can provide better support and help to strengthen students so they are successful socially, emotionally, and educationally. Additionally, we can continue to encourage people to pursue their education at community colleges, accept apprenticeships at licensed trades, etc. Setting up apprenticeships in high school and beyond would make a significant difference in the skill building and career trajectory for young Mainers.
Travel to Maine has rebounded strongly, but this tourism season was hampered by massive workforce shortages. What can the Legislature do to help grow this crucial economic sector?
The Maine Legislature passed a bill last year to allow greater density in Maine communities. Knox County towns are discussing this law to see how it might work in their communities. We need innovative and creative solutions to help businesses grow by ensuring there is adequate, affordable housing for workers. Allowing homeowners to build additional units on their property is a great step. Innovations like tiny houses allow homeownership at a lower price tag. We need communities to come to a consensus about what housing models they want to see that will enable people to live in their communities. The role of the legislature is to help remove barriers so that communities can implement their strategies.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
My primary role as a Senator will be to work with communities to understand what laws will improve the lives of Knox County residents. Communication and input with Knox County community, business, individuals, families, schools, will guide my work in the senate. The best policies come from community collaboration, not one person who thinks they have all the answers.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Foster economic development to create an environment that entices businesses and industry to grow. Increase job opportunities to attract people to stay in Maine and thrive. Review and oppose legislative policies that either raise cost of living or increase the fuel tax burden on Mainers. Encourage our US delegation to implement national policy to reduce fuel costs.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
No change
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
In my district, we have experienced very high real estate values. In part, this is due to folks desiring to move to our area for our schools, lifestyle, and what Maine offers in general. Supply & demand. This, in turn, makes it difficult for lower income, first time buyers, and the workforce to secure something within their means. Solutions will entail the economic development mentioned above and further the strength of our trade schools to provide the labor force we are currently in need of. In addition, there are policies that can be changed to lower the cost of new home production. All in all, it will be an encompassing solution.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Maine maintains safeguards that exceed other states. The security of a strong voting system is to be diligent and to seek input from all the participants in the system.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
From my discussion with stake holders and voters who have been affected are that there are not enough mental health resources available including personnel and actual proper facilities that can handle the demand. In talking with law enforcement and with county officials, the link between addiction and mental health is evident and cannot be ignored. We need to up our game on mental health resources, increase the education and treatment factors, as well as preventing drugs from getting here in the first place. These factors are all paramount.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Lockdowns, school closures, masks, and other policy implementations had a disparate effect on students in general and lower income kids in particular. There are socio-economic reasons for the disparities and that too requires an encompassing ongoing effort to succeed. On the part of the state, extreme caution must be practiced if we ever see a similar situation arise again. Regarding the setbacks that are now facing our student population, the state should put its efforts into the STEM subjects and appropriate grade-level reading comprehension. As mentioned above, mental health again plays a part and schools need expanded resources to identify and provide Title 1, Part A accommodations to a (now) broader range student.
Travel to Maine has rebounded strongly, but this tourism season was hampered by massive workforce shortages. What can the Legislature do to help grow this crucial economic sector?
See above for trade schools, an ample and ready workforce, Mainers who run businesses without burdening regulation, employees that are healthy and secure, and viable lobster industry families that maintain and support the Maine persona.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
The questions posed here by BDN are a good example that show the need for attention in several areas that, in actuality, link together. I intend to connect these links and implement policy with the larger picture in mind to improve Mainers’ lives and livelihoods.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
The state has spent an enormous amount of resources in pursuing clean alternative energy. While we’re well along in that path, we’ve left ourselves open to the wild price gyrations currently happening in the fossil fuel markets, namely natural gas. Simply covering added costs for those most vulnerable to these price spikes will do nothing to solve the underlying problem. While we can’t do much about the mistakes of the federal government, we can influence health care costs here at home, including hospital pricing transparency. We can influence food insecurity, a by-product of higher inflation. And we can influence job creation and budget reductions to reset our financial structure and tax revenues.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I think we need to provide better community support to help women in finding ways to bring their unborn child to term and support after birth that is high quality and easily accessible for both the mother and the child.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Streamlining the regulatory and permit hurdles to promote real estate investment and construction of affordable housing units. A large part of accomplishing this goal is expanding our opportunities for trades education and beginning that education at earlier ages. We simply don’t have enough electricians, plumbers or carpenters in this state to build the inventory that we desperately need.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Mostly yes – we have a more stringent absentee ballot process than most states, which helps the system’s integrity.
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Maine residents have long supported the concept of voters supplying identification during the voting process as the surest way to maintain the integrity of our election system. We can offer free identification cards to all those who qualify to vote.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Both our rates of substance use and suicide are rooted in underlying mental health disorders, namely anxiety and depression, among others. That is really where we have to attack the problem. We can talk about the open borders and free flow of fentanyl across it all we want, but if we don’t address the root causes of drug use and suicide, we’ll never get ahead. A part of the solution is expanding mental health treatment options, whether it’s day support groups, more funding for out- and in-patient treatment programs, and other intervening measures.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Ultimately, parents should be the ones who are empowered to make the right choices for their children, and I think we need to back to focusing on creating more opportunities for engagement by parents in their child’s educational journey. This would include creating a voucher program for students to attend the school that best meets their educational needs. Further, we need to go back to basics with Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), reading, comprehension and critical thinking skills. We need to teach our kids how to think, not what to think. We also need to expand access to online tutoring and extended learning opportunities at no cost.
Telework or hybrid schedules are "here to stay" for many state government employees, the budget commissioner said this spring. Do you agree with this focus in Maine's recruitment and retention strategy?
Government exists to serve its people, and we heard from many residents over the course of the pandemic who were unable to reach various State offices to receive these services. We've also seen serious reductions in our workforce participation rates for a variety of reasons. Maintaining a work-life balance is important whether you're in the public or private sector, and the State should consider that as well as the need to provide the highest-quality customer service to our residents, maintain workers' productivity and quality work product, and support a positive work environment that produces all of the above. All are not mutually exclusive.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
My unique role as a business owner and realtor has provided me with a perspective some others don’t have. I’ve seen firsthand the difficulties of our neighbors struggling to find affordable housing. I’ve seen the challenges some hard-working graduates have had in paying back school loans. And I’ve seen how our seniors struggled through higher electricity rates and fuel oil prices that decimated fixed-income budgets at the beginning of the year. I’ve presented countless pieces of legislation to address these issues, including LD 23 to expand the school loan tax credit. I will continue to work for Maine’s people to ensure they can not only afford to live here, but also thrive here.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Holding corporations accountable. We've all experienced the pressure at the fuel pump and grocery store. I was pleased to see that as the price per gallon was steadily increasing that 75 Maine lawmakers signed a letter to our Attorney General to investigate price gouging by energy giants, who claim inflation to be the reason for rising gas prices meanwhile posting record-breaking profits. As your State Senator, I will join them in calling out corporations that take advantage of us and hold them accountable.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
As a Senator, I am committed to making sure that decisions about pregnancy are legally protected, and abortion is accessible. As a medical worker and proud family man, I understand that abortion is healthcare and that all people deserve bodily autonomy. Maine has some of the best laws on the books to provide reproductive care for our citizens. I will continue to listen to my coworkers, scientists, doctors, and most importantly, the people impacted by laws that inhibit their freedoms.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Families and young Mainers are getting priced out of the market, and we see our elders struggling to find affordable retirement homes. As a nurse, I see many patients come through the emergency department seeking housing and a hot meal because they have nowhere else to go. There is no singular solution to solving our housing crisis, and I look forward to working with my constituents, advocates, and experts to approach this issue.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
We all know that democracy is at its best when more people can participate. I'm proud to raise my family in the great state of Maine, where we unveiled Ranked Choice Voting, fought for same-day voter registration, and worked on automatic voter registration. I will continue to look for ways to increase participation in the democratic process by advocating for policies like expanding Ranked choice voting for state races.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
It's no secret that many Mainers have lost mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters to the opioid epidemic. As a nurse, one of the most important first steps we can take is to
increase detox beds in our state. Across the state, advocates have been calling for this critical resource. Currently, there are 20 beds for uninsured and underinsured people. Detox beds and inpatient beds and the first step in long-term recovery.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Educators in our community deserve huge gratitude for going above and beyond for our children through a pandemic; thank you. We must ensure that all of our kids have a chance to succeed. This starts with making sure that their basic needs are met. Students can't learn when they're hungry or are stressed about if they'll have a home next month. The system is broken, and we need affordable housing and better-paying jobs now. Our area schools in Augusta have done well at reacclimating students back to the classroom by utilizing ARPA funds for programs that allowed interventionists to work one on one with our kids and tutors to help with lost learning. We need to continue to have these resources available for our schools.
Telework or hybrid schedules are "here to stay" for many state government employees, the budget commissioner said this spring. Do you agree with this focus in Maine's recruitment and retention strategy?
There have been many studies done that show that working remotely is beneficial for the employer and employee. According to the American Psychological Association, it's found that working remotely allows for more flexibility, saves time, and in some situations, can reduce costs of transportation and child care. It is also better for the person's morale and increases productivity. It also widens the pool of folks we can hire for specific jobs. For example, if you're living in the County, you might not be able to move to central or southern Maine for a job; however, when it's made remote or hybrid now, you can apply for that position while maintaining your life in the place that you choose. It gives us the ability to recruit talent that might otherwise go unnoticed.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
My reason for running for this office is that I see the struggles of Mainers from the prospective of a healthcare worker. My priorities3
5- are reproductive rights, healthcare, housing, jobs, and lowering everyday costs for working Mainers. I'm running on these issues because it's what I see every day as a nurse when I clock in for work. I see people coming in at their breaking point because of the high cost of living and low wages. I see people experiencing homelessness coming to the hospital for a warm place to sleep and a hot meal. We must protect our people and keep Maine the way life should be. I will fight to keep our home a safe place for us and the next generation. My priorities are your priorities.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Keep taxes in line, reduce energy costs by getting control of our electric grid away from foreign interests, stop government spending on unnecessary activities
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I cosponsored our current abortion law in 1993. I do not favor taxpayer funding of abortions.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Ease regulation. Help bring back our manufactured housing industry that was killed in the housing crisis.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
We must pass meaningful campaign finance reform to get dark money and foreign governments out of our elections.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Community outreach and treatment services. Crack down on fentanyl coming into Maine.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Keep schools open for in-person learning. Lengthen school year.
Maine is one of just two states that does not allow Sunday hunting. Would you support it? Outline any conditions for your answer.
No
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
“The least expensive gallon of gas is the one you don’t buy.” Whenever the state gives heating assistance (LIHEAP), we should also be giving free home efficiency tests and link people to available resources to pay for winterization services. It will make people’s homes more comfortable while saving them, and potentially the state, money in the long run. We should expand grants and credits for winterization programs for middle income earners.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I would like to work on a comprehensive adoption bill aimed at women giving up a child for adoption. There are a number of programs to offer financial support for adoptive parents. Yet they would be the first to say the real heroes are the women who carry a child for nine month's to place it up for adoption. There is too often a social stigma and few resources for women who make that hard decision. We can change that.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
In the last session, the legislature pasted an extensive package aimed at increasing Maine’s housing supply, with a specific aim of adding more affordable housing. I would give that package a chance to work. I support infill housing (filling vacant spaces along already existing roads, water and sewer lines, bus routes…) The Housing Opportunities for Maine Fund, funded by real estate transfer taxes, should be focused on supporting construction or rehab of affordable housing for now.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Maine already has the security of paper ballots which are trackable and verifiable. Our municipal clerks are knowledgeable and professional.
Instead of reform, we need to improve voter education on Maine’s process and how to access information on proposed bonds, referendums, and candidates.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
We need to establish more treatment facilities throughout the state. When a person is ready to accept help, services need to be accessible immediately. If we make them wait, it is too late. The recently passed Good Samaritan Act should have a positive life saving impact.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
The State now meeting the requirement of funding 55% of education cost's will help. We need to build on that to fund quality summer and after school programs. Low-income students, in normal times, lose significantly more learning in the summer than higher income students do. Quality summer and before and after school programs allow students to get more time in a smaller and less structured environment. We also must address the growing teacher shortage. It doesn't matter how much money a district has, if it can't find highly qualified people to lead classrooms, children won't meet their potential. Developing pathways for people who want to switch careers, subsidies for teachers in targeted high need areas as well as higher pay overall will help
As part of plans to spur housing development, Auburn has proposed rezoning 150 acres near Lake Auburn. Lewiston has sued, arguing it endangers the public water source for both cities. How should the cities resolve this dispute?
Transparency, communication, and compromise are essential but lacking on this issue. The new zoning has significant social and economic benefits. Those benefits will be quickly outweighed if Lake Auburn is negatively impacted.
Tensions have gotten so high between the sides. A neutral party (hired, state or court appointed) may help mediate and ensure everyone is being heard.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
As a veteran, I have worked on a number of veteran issues. Through that work, I have been able to have good conversations and build relationships on both sides of the aisle; everyone wants to support veterans. When the work turned to more partisan issues, we were still able to have civil conversations and use those relationships to discuss shared values, find common ground, and work toward common sense solutions. My personal motto is Listen : Learn : Lead. I listen to constituents. I enjoy hearing a variety of perspectives. I do my research. I know leadership is not pushing my agenda. Leadership is motivating and inspiring people to work toward a goal for the common good.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
High energy costs are affecting everyone. In Maine, lawmakers should continue to do everything we can to insure that older adults and working families can afford to heat their homes and keep the lights on. One new policy proposal I plan to introduce is a refundable gas tax fairness credit.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Easier
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
As we have seen with the recent Dobbs decision, our Constitutionally protected rights can be taken away at any moment. I would support amending the Maine Constitution to recognize the right to privacy stripped away at the Federal level, to protect reproductive health care, marriage equality, and the right to parent our children, amongst others.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Housing affordability is an issue we must continue to address. In the Legislature, I championed the creation of the Senior Property Tax Deferral program that allows the state to pay the property taxes for those who qualify. I will introduce legislation to implement a State funded program modeled on Habitat for Humanity.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Anything that makes voting more accessible to more citizens, as our Democracy works best the more folks participate.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
I will continue to partner with and listen to the recovery community and Maine families who have lost loved ones in this horrible epidemic, made worse by the opioid manufacturers and other bad actors, as to what will serve them best. In addition, I will reintroduce my bill to implement the Psilocybin Services Act in Maine. Although we need to continue funding existing recovery and treatment, we also need to look at new treatment models, and psychedelics have shown promise in treating addiction.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
We need to support our educators so that they can serve our students and help them to fill in any gaps. I believe in working with parents and educators to determine best policies to help our kids get back on track. The best policy solutions often come from listening and working with people on the ground as opposed to a top-down approach.
Travel to Maine has rebounded strongly, but this tourism season was hampered by massive workforce shortages. What can the Legislature do to help grow this crucial economic sector?
Much like the rest of the country, Maine businesses continue to grapple with workforce shortages across a number of industries. In Maine, the Legislature must continue to pass funding for Community college programs that partner with local businesses, apprenticeship programs, career and technical schools, student loan forgiveness programs targeted at sectors in most need, and thoughtfully allowing credentials to be recognized across state and country borders.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I will continue to listen and help give a voice to those who don’t necessarily always have a voice in Augusta - older Mainers, survivors of domestic violence, children and companion animals.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Increased funding and expanded eligibility for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is needed even if the governor’s request to the Feds is not granted.
A bill (LD 1966) was passed in the last session to improve access to the LIHEAP application process and allow folks to apply easily online. I would want to make sure this is working and helping. Finally, many Mainers have taken advantage of Efficiency Maine incentives to switch to heat pumps, which run on much cleaner electricity. We need to hold utilities accountable for their unacceptable rate spikes and have more consumer input into the rate-setting process so that Mainers have lower energy costs while helping fight climate change. A new law (LD 1913) does this - we lawmakers need to make sure it’s effective.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
The previous multiple choice question is not appropriate. It’s not whether abortion should be “easier” or “harder” to get, but whether it should be protected as part of women’s health care - it’s that basic. Maine currently has strong abortion protection laws, some of which I helped enact when I served in the Maine House. One example is LD 820, which ensures health insurance coverage for all reproductive care, including abortion. If I am elected to the Senate I will want to hear from health care professionals and legal experts about whether or not Maine’s abortion laws need strengthening.
The right to a safe and legal abortion is a woman’s private health care right. As a father of three daughters and grandfather of ten, I will fight to uphold this right for them and all Mainers.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
I would strongly support the new affordable housing law, LD 2003, which allows property owners to build accessory dwelling units on their own property providing they are adhering to all municipal guidance. This law will help family members of homeowners and others stay in their communities to live and work. This new law is not just an affordable housing solution, it's a property rights issue as well.
The current Affordable Housing Tax Credit, which mirrors the federal program and has incentivized developers of affordable housing units built in the state, is set to expire here in Maine in a number of years . I would propose an extension and improvements that would continue to leverage more affordable housing units here in Maine.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
I believe that all political candidates should achieve a majority (over 50%) of the vote to get elected. Therefore, I would reform rank-choice voting in Maine to apply to the state legislative and Governor’s race.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
We need to continue funding of the successful OPTIONS (Overdose Prevention Through Intensive Outreach, Naloxone and Safety) initiative in Maine. Under the initiative, mobile response teams in every Maine county engage with communities that have high rates of drug overdoses to promote drug prevention and harm reduction strategies, connect people directly to recovery services and treatment, and distribute naloxone, the lifesaving overdose medication.
We need to make sure that all recovery houses meet national standards so that they can receive Maine funding and maintain a high quality of care and treatment.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
My son-in-law, a high school teacher, says “the battle is won or lost around the dinner table.” Insecurities in housing, food, child care, and health care are priorities for struggling families. We need to continue to fund programs that give families a boost towards basic security.
As an educator for 25 years, I know we cannot expect our already overworked, excellent teachers alone to close the achievement gap that the pandemic has widened. Our schools need more qualified classroom teachers and professional staff, including social workers and guidance counselors. For this, adequate funding and training is a must.
All ideas are on the table - one is to attract our growing community of retired Mainers to get involved in tutoring and the use of proven interventions to help close this gap.
Travel to Maine has rebounded strongly, but this tourism season was hampered by massive workforce shortages. What can the Legislature do to help grow this crucial economic sector?
Maine needs to fund more programs for our vocational tech schools and community colleges to offer more hospitality trades such as culinary arts, hotel management, etc. We also need to support affordable housing initiatives so that everyone in the workforce can afford a place to live and raise their family.
Finally, Maine has an aging workforce, many of whom have retired early and are not going back to work due to health concerns regarding Covid. As Maine get safer once again, we need to find ways to entice our older population back to work in the tourist industry as well as other sectors of our economy.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
Taking steps to manage the skyrocketing cost of living for working Maine families and retirees is a priority for me. Passing legislation that will open the door to more affordable housing, bringing down energy costs by holding corporations and utilities accountable for price-gouging, and making health care more affordable are a few things I will focus on to help bring down costs for fellow Mainers.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
With funding administered through Efficiency Maine Trust, I’d support ways to increase incentives for weatherization, including the installation of high-performance heat pumps, to achieve identified goals of having 100,000 heat pumps in Maine homes and businesses by 2025 along other weatherization goals. I’m in favor of initiatives that combine Maine’s existing rebate and tax credit program with the Federal Inflation Reduction Act to maximize the incentives. With anticipated demand, a focus on ensuring adequate supplies of heat pumps as well as well-trained employees and installers is needed. Programs already begun at our community colleges for training and apprenticeships, along with stipends for transportation and childcare to support students while training, would have my support.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I’m aware that there are ongoing discussions and a review about whether the current Maine Constitution provides abortion protections or whether a constitutional amendment is required to ensure that they are permanent and not subject to change based on the political party with a majority. It takes two-thirds of the legislature to support bringing the question of an amendment to the voters in a statewide referendum. I will vote in favor of doing so If it’s determined that such an amendment is necessary to ensure that women’s reproductive rights are permanently protected in Maine.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Building upon Maine’s recent progress in providing increased funding for affordable housing, I’d focus on the opportunities that exist with Maine’s aging housing stock. Given the high cost of building materials, renovating older homes could prove to be more economical. Many of these homes were built when families were typically larger. With the new law that permits multi -family construction on formerly single lots, possibilities exist to convert many of them into multi-family units which would improve housing affordability and availability. Opportunities could be promoted and incentivized by the Maine State Housing Authority. Adherence to updated codes and improved weatherization and energy options would also result in safer and healthier living environments.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Implement ranked choice voting in all Maine elections.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
I’d like to see Maine’s portion of the settlement from the pharmaceutical companies that had a role in the opioid addiction crisis be put into a fund that’s restricted to providing services and support to the victims and their families. It could also be used for prevention. A successful example would be the Fund for Healthy Maine that was created with the tobacco settlement funds and has had many successes.
I would also promote using available funding to create a statewide, coordinated system of support that includes multidisciplinary teams. The teams would include law enforcement, medical providers, social workers, attorneys and other community resource providers.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
It’s critical to Maine’s future to ensure that students who have been left behind during the past few years have the opportunity to catch up. I’m concerned about all students, but particularly our youngest students for whom literacy and math skills are critical by the third grade if they are to achieve in other ways throughout their school years. Maine could assess the reading and math scores of students and use the data to determine the need. I would advocate for Maine to apply for a targeted grant from the Title 1 federal program to be directed towards Maine districts with identified needs for increased supports.
Travel to Maine has rebounded strongly, but this tourism season was hampered by massive workforce shortages. What can the Legislature do to help grow this crucial economic sector?
As the state with the oldest population in the country, we have a large number of people leaving the workforce due to retirement without enough younger people to replace them. The solutions to employee shortages include offering incentives to retain our younger population, recruiting younger people from other states and working with Congress to loosen restrictions on immigrants and work visas. One thing I think the Legislature could do is to provide funding to create a recruitment campaign. However, going back to the earlier question regarding housing, there needs to be coordination to ensure affordable housing is available to those who would like to live and work in Maine. It will take a multifaceted and collaborative approach involving the Legislature, Congress and employers.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I’d focus on continuing the current efforts to ensure the work of the Child Welfare Ombudsman’s Office continues. Our child welfare system has been broken for years and is getting worse, as evidenced by too many child deaths and inadequate assessment and planning for child safety. Systematic reform is long overdue and has to be a priority. The Government Oversight Committee needs to be involved and develop a meaningful process that will ensure that all of the stakeholders who care enough to be connected to the system, now or in the past, are heard and taken seriously. We can no longer rely only on piecemeal solutions. Timely and comprehensive reform of the system is needed so we don’t lose yet another generation of children to the trauma of abuse and neglect.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Recently signed into law by Governor Mills, LD 2010, “An Act to Help Maine Residents with High Electricity Costs” will guarantee cash rebates to Maine energy utility customers by Oct 30 of this year. This is an important step that will bring immediate relief to so many in our community who have struggled with the high cost of fuel. One of my priorities as your representative will be to examine ways in which we can reduce our community’s reliance on fossil fuels, and do so in a way that lowers current and future costs for our district’s residents. I am determined to find creative solutions to improve our energy efficiency while reducing consumer energy costs.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
In Maine, abortion is legal until "viability," and after that, only in cases where it could threaten a mother’s physical or mental health or life. This seems to be a fair balance that covers most cases where someone would require an abortion, but in the face of our community’s healthcare shortages, we must ensure that those who need this medical treatment are able to access it as early in their pregnancy as possible, in order to reduce harm and potential complications.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
As your representative, I will look into incentives for renovating, expanding, and building safe, lower income housing options for renters, and work to find ways to ease the pathway to homeownership for those who wish to purchase a home. Providing more quality, affordable units will have many benefits—it can attract more workers to our district, increase neighborhood property values, and ensure that our fellow Mainers have enough money left over each month to funnel their savings back into our local businesses.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Our democracy depends on participation. In order to have a government for the people, by the people, we need to make sure that people actually participate in electing their government through voting. While our elections in Maine are some of the most secure in the country, we can improve in the sense that we can do more to ensure greater participation. As your representative, I will champion the following policies: expand automatic voter registration, provide a process for voters to request ongoing absentee voter status and Send voters a non-partisan, friendly reminder about upcoming elections and their polling location.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
As your representative, I will work to make sure that we have enough community
resources available to help Mainers find a pathway out of the darkness of addiction.
Our Attorney General has gone after those in the pharmaceutical industry who
profited from the opioid crisis that hit families hard in Maine. I want to make sure those
settlement funds go directly to help Mainers who are experiencing substance use
disorder.
I would also advocate for specialized training for our law enforcement. They are often
at the front lines of the drug crisis, and they can be a key intermediary to help divert
addicted individuals away from the criminal justice system toward treatment.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Solving any problem begins with accurate information. First, we need to identify data about the districts and types of students who were most negatively impacted by the pandemic. Remote schooling was not easy for every student, and no doubt some students’ access to reliable internet, computing devices, and a quiet space to do homework were all contributing factors.
Once we identify specific students and districts, we need to provide additional support in the form of after-school mentorship/tutoring, summer programming, and potentially other wrap-around services to address the income-related factors of those gaps.
Plans for a transmission line linking wind farms in Aroostook County to the regional grid are being eyed in Massachusetts as a potentially massive source of clean power. What should the region get in return from a developer before such a project moves forward?
Being able to supply neighboring states with our own, home-grown wind power would be a great source of potential income for our county. However, before the project moves forward, we need to ensure that developers present a proper plan for grid implementation and maintenance. Although the electricity would come from a renewable source, the transmission lines themselves could pose a risk to our forests, so ensuring that safety is their number one priority. Just one example to consider, burying power lines, while more expensive, can reduce their risk of igniting wildfires by 99%. Since this clean energy resource is part of building a new, cleaner grid, we need to build resiliency into it; that means having a robust maintenance and climate-forward installation plan in place.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I believe that running for office is an act of service. It isn't about winning a competition or building a name for myself, it's about YOU, the people I would represent. As your representative, I promise to always listen with an open heart and an open mind. I will work to protect our rights and our natural environment, and make sure that our community gets the resources it deserves.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Increase Home Heating Subsidies and encourage better weatherization of our homes.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Maintain the present women's right of to choose and offer assistance to women from states that restrict these rights.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Increase State Subsidies to promote developers to build affordable housing. Make permitting less burdensome.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
We have secure voting at this time.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Many get addicted because of medical prescription abuse. Overusers should be treated, not prosecuted.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Increase educators' compensation to that of others with college educations. Treat educators with the respect they deserve. Create incentives for teachers to teach in low-income areas.
Plans for a transmission line linking wind farms in Aroostook County to the regional grid are being eyed in Massachusetts as a potentially massive source of clean power. What should the region get in return from a developer before such a project moves forward?
Such a grid should be able to connect the entire County to the rest of New England, not just wind farms. Some of our Federal Assistance should be coupled with State reserves to achieve this sorely needed improvement to the County's energy needs.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
A top priority for me is to stem the out migration of our young people. One way is to help attract businesses with better paying jobs, as well as encourage the growth of small businesses.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Truth be known, the worldwide price of fossil fuels has risen dramatically over the past few years and for many reasons, most of which are beyond State or even Federal control. In the legislature we have supported the HEAP program, and have provided considerable tax-relief for seniors, and sent $850 checks to all Maine residents who filed a 2021 Maine Income Tax form. (Just a reminder to those people who normally who do not have to file a Maine Income Tax form, this year they must file before October 31 to get that check) I must say that it bothers me greatly that those companies that we rely on for electricity and fuel are more profitable than even while the public is suffering. I hope that we can do something about this.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Regardless of my personal opinions regarding abortion I do not think that a legislature should dictate the right of a woman to choose her reproductive care. I would support a bill that ensures the right of women from other states to come to Maine for reproductive services.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Anyone who has tried to buy or rent a home knows just how difficult the task has become. The legislature has focused on funding programs for housing projects and will undoubtedly do more. In 2021 I submitted LD 1530 which paved the way for Tiny Homes (400 sq. feet or less) to be placed on existing or new lots while using existing water and sewer as long as they were up to code.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Maine already has a high level of voter turnout in very secure elections. I strongly believe that the right for all citizens to vote is foundational to our state and country, therefore I support anything that makes it more likely that more citizens vote while maintaining the integrity of the election. .
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
The opiod crisis is perhaps the most complex and difficult problem in our society today. There are many, many factors involved both in creating the treating the problem. I am absolutely certain that our priority must be in the treatment and recovery arena. Such services, however expensive must be made more readily available to those in need. It goes without saying that getting and keeping appropriate staffing in facilities is critical as well as problematic.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
We are making significant progress in the field of internet connectivity especially in rural areas which certainly will help. Economically disadvantaged rural areas also have more difficulty obtaining and retaining quality staffing in our schools and we are addressing this aspect as best we can. Recently the legislative Committee Education and Cultural Affairs on which I serve , moved a bill which the Legislature passed and Gov. Mills signed into law which provided 2 years of tuition free college at our Community Colleges to all 2020-23 Maine High School graduates. These steps are aimed at closing the gap between high and low income portions of our communities.
Plans for a transmission line linking wind farms in Aroostook County to the regional grid are being eyed in Massachusetts as a potentially massive source of clean power. What should the region get in return from a developer before such a project moves forward?
The initial phase of implementing wind and solar projects certainly begins with the developer, the landowner and the local community and therefore this is the level of initial contracts. With regard to the transmission lines, we need to keep in mind that these are "for profit" companies and as such can enter into whatever contract they deem profitable. It is difficult but not impossible to negotiate benefits for the entire County.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
As I look back at my 3 terms in the Maine House, I am I struck by the wide and diverse variety of my 20 plus bills that have been passed into law. If re-elected I suspect this diversity in bills to continue but as of now I am planning on working on bills having to do with the medical field. This includes programs that attract and keep physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, medical technicians, dentists. and even veterinarians. Perhaps state backed incentive type programs for rural areas might be a successful approach. I certainly will consider other bills and encourage my constituents to contact me if they have any suggestions.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
I don't think there's a magic answer for anyone as it's something that is concerning to the entire world and we are all feeling it's impact. However, we need make sure we are bringing aide to the most vulnerable first such as providing fuel oil assistance programs to the elderly and families with young children. I think that companies profiting of of this issue currently needs to end immediately...price gouging and utility companies who take advantage of these times by raising rates need to end.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
As a woman, I firmly believe in a woman's right to choose. No situation is black and white and no one should govern another person's body. I also firmly believe that the pro life movement is strictly "pro-birth" and not pro life because children and families are suffering to cover healthcare, childcare and basic costs to support their children. We need to support our rural health care systems and provide a wider range of access to health care to women and children.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
As a business owner who operates on very slim profit margins and am unable to pay my wonderful staff competitive wages, I often am in a position to help my staff find housing. It has become so bad that I have been asking families to take in our staff for a few months at a time to keep them employed and HERE in Caribou until they find housing they can afford or when housing becomes available. This is a true crisis in rural Maine. We need to encourage first time home ownership by offering education/programs that assist in the home buying process. We also need to take a second look at how short term rentals are impacting access to housing options that were once up for grabs for tenants seeking long term housing who no longer have that option.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Something that is not done enough is getting young people to vote! So many young people are not registered or involved in the voting process. We need to make voter registration easier and more accessible for people of all ages/abilities while also potentially enacting a system to enable ongoing absentee voter status.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
One, legislators need to be empathetic in regards to this crisis and health care issue. Going after Big Pharma rather than the people suffering from addiction is a great place to start. Establishing reliable and quality recovery centers in every community is imperative.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Parents need help. Not every child has support at home when it comes to their education. Before and after school assistance in school to help children catch up would be incredibly beneficial. Remote learning was impossible for children to receive a quality education. We need to pinpoint schools that struggled the most during remote learning and bring them additional resources to get these children caught up in a way that is not overwhelming to the child.
Plans for a transmission line linking wind farms in Aroostook County to the regional grid are being eyed in Massachusetts as a potentially massive source of clean power. What should the region get in return from a developer before such a project moves forward?
Aroostook County should have more renewable energy resources here as we have endless amounts of land to build solar farms, ect. We are experiencing extremely unaffordable energy costs in our homes and businesses and a clean affordable option would be helpful to Mainers. Not to mention the opportunity for economic development with the employment opportunities associated with this endeavor.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
One of my initial reasons for entering this race was to be an advocate for families and children and small business owners. Child care is critical yet is not a topic that is being discussed. Childcare is an integral part of infrastructure and without access to high quality reliable child care, parents aren't working therefore our communities/ economy continues to struggle. I plan on figuring out the discrepancies in the business model associated with childcare and finding ways to fix this incredibly broken and undervalued sector.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Bolster or supplement LIHEAP funds, rapidly implement “The Inflation Reduction Act” here in Maine, and further enhance outreach and community education for our excellent "Efficiency Maine" programs -- swift, effective use of "The Inflation Reduction Act" and "Efficiency Maine" are key to affordable energy costs for all Mainers, but especially for folks who have lower incomes.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Although I am not in favor of abortion, I believe it is not my right to decide for others. A woman’s right to choose should be written into the Maine Constitution.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Support policies which tax vacant properties in ways that incentivize their upkeep, maintenance and re-development. Better utilize Opportunity Zones in larger towns. In our very rural region: 1) connect qualified, homeless buyers with re-developed properties and existing buyer programs and, 2) incentivize affordable housing apartment projects that encourage renters with diverse income levels and backgrounds to live together; gentrification often separates us by income and outlook and turns diverse communities into mono-cultures. In my opinion, this is not America as it should be.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Maine’s voting laws are exceptionally transparent, well-structured, fair and effective; I can’t think of any urgently needed reform to them.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Replace the Penobscot County Jail, adding ample space for rehabilitation, counseling and other support services to its design. Staff this new facility in accordance with actual need, for both rehabilitation/recovery and incarceration. This would allow police to better do their jobs by moving them out of the crisis-level social services role that the drug epidemic and our inadequate response to it, has unfairly imposed on them. In addition, address the backlog of court cases resulting both from COVID and the drug crisis. Our courts are teetering on ineffectiveness and collapse because of the volume of cases and inadequate staffing to address them. Speedy prosecution and incarceration and/or rehabilitation, should be the norm; we need Maine residents healthy and employed.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Although recent free college tuition for those most affected by the COVID times has been a smart and important decision, we also need to build more capacity in our technical and vocational training, in both the regional high school programs and in our excellent state technical schools. “Fully funding education” means investing efficiently in the skills and knowledge that young people want and need, in ways that serve our Maine economy.
Plans for a transmission line linking wind farms in Aroostook County to the regional grid are being eyed in Massachusetts as a potentially massive source of clean power. What should the region get in return from a developer before such a project moves forward?
Such projects should fund the redevelopment and transformation of the Maine grid in Aroostook and northern Penobscot counties in ways that function efficiently and effectively and accommodate expansion for future, not yet planned, clean energy projects. Compensation for the long-term changes in land usage should be worked out with existing regional business development organizations to develop infrastructure, training and recruitment of workers, and encourage new businesses. Such projects have the potential for enormous financial benefits to both developers and the people and communities of our region; this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to “get it right”.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I would bring a sustained emphasis on economic development and infrastructure improvements for the most rural parts of our very rural state; there should be far-greater balance, geographically, with our state economy. Good jobs and prosperity should not exist only south of Augusta, while rural places wither and struggle. Dependable, affordable, high-speed internet for every corner of rural Maine is critical to this. High quality, consistently available broadband should be as routine and affordable as electricity.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Maine winters can be rough, that's for sure. It certainly doesn't help that our everyday expenses are through the roof. Even before the soaring costs, Mainers were already making the impossible decisions like whether or not to buy their medication or put food on the table.
One policy I'd be in favor of is reducing or eliminating the gas tax temporarily. Every little bit helps and that would certainly benefit a big portion of our population.
I'd also support anything we can do to stop utility companies from elevating their rates and corporations from price gouging.
There are numerous other programs as well that will help Mainers, we just need to make sure that everyone is aware that they're available.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I am very much for a woman's right to choose. That being said though, of course there are certain situations that should be given a second look. Late term abortions and women that use abortion as birth control for example. Extreme cases like these happen, but I would hope they are very few and far between.
It is such a fine line with all of these reproductive medical decisions, because every situation is different. Lumping them all together to say 'no' to abortion and 'yes' to abortion is ludicrous. But when it comes down to it, women should have the choice of deciding what happens with their own bodies, not individuals elected to office who didn't earn medical degrees. Either way, it is a very slippery slope when we allow government to make any sort of medical decisions for anyone.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
We've witnessed the housing affordability crisis get worse year after year. Supply and demand - not enough spaces leads to higher rental prices. The state needs to work with the private sector to create more housing.
As a multi generational Downeaster myself, I love seeing family homesteads passed down through the generations. I was one of them - in 2018 I lost my 4th generation home to fire. I was so proud to live in that house. Being able to help Mainers stay in their family homes would be a priority for me. In the event that an individual was moving, what about some sort of an incentive for selling your home to a fellow Mainer? That would at least ensure a Maine native would have a chance at home ownership over some investment company or someone "from away" with deeper pockets.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
If anything, we should be making it easier for everyone to vote and have their say, not making it more difficult.
You see news stories about bigger cities around the county where people stand in line for hours on end, to cast their vote. Bless their hearts for being patriotic and recognizing the importance of voting. It makes me that much more thankful for my small hometown town office and the volunteers with familiar faces to greet us and hand out the iconic "I Voted" stickers. But those who don't have that luxury, it's a problem. Long lines, distance to your local voting site, not having a ride, time off from work, finding a babysitter, etc. These are all issues that can be avoided with easier access to absentee voting and encouragement to do so.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
The opioid crisis is certainly ongoing and is seemingly getting worse over time. I feel there used to be such a stigma about discussing individual substance abuse issues but it's so important to know that everyone has their demons and that's okay. Recognizing the problem is the first step to getting any sort of assistance to overcome. There are so many resources out there for those struggling, it's a matter of sharing and making sure these individuals are aware of anything and everything that is available to them. I personally know so many that are proudly in recovery and are doing so well. There isn't one answer to solve everything, but I know that having that support in every community is certainly a big help to a successful recovery.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
The pandemic was hard on everyone. Students were caught in the middle and had to abruptly adjust to whatever was thrown at them for an extended period of time. Everyone learns differently and those that struggled more so with remote learning should not be penalized for it. There should be more resources available like tutoring/after school help/summer programs, but I do realize that these necessary resources are few and far between for some schools. I have a speaking engagement with a local teacher group in a few weeks and I look forward to inquiring and getting better incite into what is actually happening today in our classrooms and what teachers need from lawmakers in order to be successful.
Between late 2021 and early 2022, Washington County saw six homicides in six months, with police blaming drug and mental health problems. What's your top priority in fighting violent crime?
The violence that has occurred in Washington County within the past year has been devastating and illegal substances and mental health problems are absolutely to blame. Unfortunately, there is no easy or simple solution to combat this ongoing issue, other than stating the obvious - more services are needed for both. But how do we reach those that aren't asking for help? I think that is the difference.
For those that are asking, programs need to be in place to assist when called upon.
It's all about finding sensible solutions that benefit as many people as possible.
One thing that I think may help is sentencing drug dealers from out of state more harshly. With a maximum sentence, maybe they'll think twice about trafficking in our state and profiting on poisoning our citizens.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I know community members of all ages would benefit from this tremendously for so many years to come - a recreational center. We don't have anything of the sort. Imagine having a safe space for teenagers to hang out whenever it's needed; a big playground, ball field and basketball court. Ice skating rink? A gymnasium where we could have movie nights, public suppers, beano and community dances. A fitness center and swimming pool would be a dream too. It would be amazing to be able to be a part of bringing something like this to my community. It is so needed and could really help address some very important and ongoing issues that we have Downeast. I really do hope that my district will give me that chance and trust that I'll do my best to represent them and make a positive difference.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Fuel assistance must be extended to encompass a broader demographic of Mainers.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
We should make Maine a safe and welcoming place for women from other states seeking abortions.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
I would favor encouraging construction of affordable housing to rent and to purchase.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
I fail to recognize the need for voting reform.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
We’ve got to educate people about the dangers of opioid use.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
I will leave the methods of educating students to educational professionals. I stand ready to assist with their recommendations.
Between late 2021 and early 2022, Washington County saw six homicides in six months, with police blaming drug and mental health problems. What's your top priority in fighting violent crime?
Washington County needs a prosecutor who will dedicate the resources to effectively deter crime.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I would like to focus on transportation infrastructure. I think it is the key to economic growth.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Rising costs for fuel, electricity, etc. are beyond control of the Maine Legislature. We need to focus on supports for prior and newly vulnerable and make applying for those supports straightforward. We should make sure no new gaps between need and available supports arise, and find ways to supplement existing programs if they do. We need to invest in improving energy efficiency of Maine homes and make building energy-efficient housing a priority.
Long term, we need to advocate at state and national level to curtail price-gouging, and we need to continue research into renewable energy generation, making renewable energy more affordable to better compete with electricity generated from fossil fuels.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
There may be an influx of people seeking abortions from states where they are now illegal. We should not turn those people away. We must make sure our practitioners are safe from prosecution for providing those services, and we should try to protect the recipients as well.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
So many parcels are in need of redevelopment to become functional housing. We need to work with municipalities and the private sector to find ways to develop new low-income and senior housing that is energy efficient. Also, we need to consider the short-term rental model and how to allow it to coexist with long-term rentals - not cannibalize them.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
I feel Maine's voting system is relatively robust already. If we were to look at areas for improvement, I would look at automatic voter registration. I'm open to other ideas as well to maintain or enhance the security of our elections, however, I will not support such a measure if it makes it more difficult for eligible voters to participate.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
I want to see that our supports for those recovering from addiction or seeking treatment are available to anyone who needs them.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
The state defends its Essential Programs and Services funding formula as the “fairest” ever in the State of Maine. EPS favors compact, urban areas over broad, rural ones which are invariably the more economically disadvantaged. The state should consider modifications to the EPS formula to invest more heavily in poorer districts with demonstrated lack of achievement and/or growth to bring greater equity within the formula.
Gov. Janet Mills and the administration of President Joe Biden are pursuing a pilot offshore wind project in federal waters off the Maine coast. Do you support it and can it coexist with the fisheries industry?
We absolutely need to continue to work toward decreasing reliance on fossil fuels, and wind, including offshore, should be a part of that plan. Any installation into the Gulf of Maine should be with a full understanding of the potential detriments to the local and larger ecosystems. When implemented, it must be done in ways that ensure compatibility with continuing, existing uses of the area such as fishing. Impact on picturesque natural surroundings should be a consideration whenever practical.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
My degree is in computer science and my work is in IT. I’m thrilled to see efforts to expand broadband across the state taking hold. I want to see that work continue and among the other efforts that many residents have expressed concerns over, I look at expanded broadband access as a means to make Maine more attractive to its own youth who might otherwise leave the state for opportunities elsewhere – opportunities that might stand a chance at benefiting from a work-from-home model in a place with good Internet access.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
All of us, regardless of party, are facing higher prices. Fortunately, the prices of gasoline and heating oil, which are responding to the world market, have dropped somewhat, but they're still high. We should make more Mainers eligible for heating assistance by adjusting the guidelines for programs like heat and weatherization assistance.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I believe Roe v. Wade was decided correctly, and I disagree with the current Court's decision to take the freedom to choose away from women. Maine currently has strong protections for women, and we should keep those protections. I support the freedom for women to control their own bodies and make their own decisions.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
We need more housing for older Mainers, and should make sure programs aimed at first-time home ownership for real people can compete in this competitive real estate market. To help more Maine people buy homes, we want to be sure all Maine’s properties aren’t owned by out of state investment companies.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
I believe Christopher Krebs, head of election security for former President Trump, who declared that in the 2020 election, "There is no evidence that any voting system deleted or lost votes, changed votes, or was in any way compromised." I believe Trump's Attorney General, Bill Barr, and Trump's Justice Department, that found that there was no election fraud of a kind that would have changed the results of the election. I honor the decisions of the Federal Judges and Supreme Court Justices appointed by Pres. Trump himself, who ruled against the former president in his attempts to overturn the election results. When we support the Constitution, when we support our Republic, we should also support the will of the people as expressed in free and fair election results.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
I want to make sure community resources are available and recovery support networks have the resources they need to help people thrive. Addiction is a serious problem that should be addressed with compassion. At the same time, we can't let traffickers and dealers off that profit from people’s pain. I appreciate the fact that our Attorney General has gone after Big Pharma, including the Sackler family who profited from the opioid crisis that hit families hard in Maine. We need to make sure that settlement funds go into options to help Mainers experiencing addictions.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
We should support training beyond high school for all adult learners, not just the college-bound. Apprenticeships are one avenue of job training that can benefit from state support. Our community colleges train students for a wide variety of careers, and our goal should be to make community college free in Maine.
Gov. Janet Mills and the administration of President Joe Biden are pursuing a pilot offshore wind project in federal waters off the Maine coast. Do you support it and can it coexist with the fisheries industry?
The purpose of a pilot project is to give us information about how well the project works. While we need to be moving toward more sustainable sources of energy such as wind power, we also need to protect our fisheries. Let's see how well the pilot project works, and learn from it, before we take the next step.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I believe it is possible for Democrats, Republicans, and independents to work together in areas were we can find agreement. It shouldn't matter who came up with an idea, if it's a good idea. I'll support any good piece of legislation regardless of which party proposed it.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
I honestly do not think that any policy per se would reduce Mainer's costs, given that the term "costs" is extremely broad and inflation is a national phenomenon. However, "cold weather [is] coming," and it is imperative that all Mainers know about LIHEAP (heating assistance) availability, eligibility criteria and how to apply. It is also important that municipalities make it known to their community members that there is also a Maine Weatherization Assistance Program, operated by the Maine State Housing Authority. The Weatherization and Central Heating Improvement Programs (CHIP) finances energy related repairs for low income homeowners and renters. That program is run through Maine's Community Action Program (CAP) agencies.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Easier
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I support creating more locations throughout Maine, particularly in rural communities, where women can get abortions, and learn about, and obtain, birth control.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Encourage and support municipalities that limit seasonal rentals, and encourage year round rentals, by providing incentives, some financial, some legislative, for those municipalities that do so. While the Speaker's housing bill in this legislative session did provide some incentives for municipalities to create more affordable housing, it is imperative that in the next session we continue that support in increase it. And we must always keep the focus on affordability.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
The Legislature should once again pass a bill to prohibit foreign-owned companies or foreign nationals from contributing to referendum campaigns in Maine. While such a bill passed the legislature with bipartisan support during this session, the Governor vetoed it.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Greatly increase needle exchange programs and increase funding for local programs to help those individuals who wish to address their addictions.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
The state can help students by identifying those who have been experiencing learning gaps, and funding programs whereby such students could receive individual or small group learning experiences to try to help them catch up. I realize, however, that there are many social factors that contribute to learning gaps, and that these factors existed prior to the pandemic, which exacerbated them. Consequently, school leadership must partner with Maine DOE, and DHHS, to create programs that help students to be open and able to learn by addressing not only educational needs but also social and emotional needs.
Gov. Janet Mills and the administration of President Joe Biden are pursuing a pilot offshore wind project in federal waters off the Maine coast. Do you support it and can it coexist with the fisheries industry?
I realize climate change is a real threat, but have not decided whether to support this proposal. Years ago, I represented folks who lived in communities where mountaintop wind companies wanted to develop projects, which my clients opposed. Because these companies had the funding to create the narrative about how these projects would be so beneficial to rural communities, all of them were built. Now these companies are no longer even paying impact fees to the communities, or taxes, based on their contention that the equipment is obsolete. Now that mountaintop wind is "over," I have no reason to believe that offshore wind will be any more beneficial to coastal communities than mountaintop wind was to inland communities.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
As a Member of the Transportation Committee (the only woman member), my focus has been, and will continue to be, on increasing public transportation, particularly in Maine's rural communities. We need to recognize that there are many folks who, for various reasons, including age, disabilities, lack of a reliable vehicle or - yes, personal preference - want and need public transportation. I have been very supportive of bills to extend rail travel from Portland to Lewiston-Auburn and to Bangor, via Waterville. I am also supportive of increasing service on Concord Coachlines. And, in a new development, I am anxious to get more information about Quebec's proposed introduction of rail service from Montreal to Boston via Maine.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Per the tax foundation, Mainers presently bear the 10th highest state and local tax burden in the nation. Government spending is the single most significant driver of inflation and curtailing Maine's present level of taxation and spending is the single best thing we can do to limit inflation, not to mention make our State a more appealing place to live and work for everyone.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I support Maine's present abortion legislation, which does not restrict abortion prior to viability, and I will not seek any changes to the present legislation.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Much of the affordability issue rests in the hands of local municipalities whose zoning restricts density, minimum dwelling size, etc. These restrictions directly drive up the cost of housing by forcing people to pay for more space than they need or want. On the State level we should work on making Maine more competitive in terms of affordability and how we treat small businesses. A stronger and freer economy will increase opportunities for people to be able to make the personal financial math work out for them here in Maine.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
I believe--as I think we all do--that it is of the utmost importance that elections are legitimate. But, as I answered "yes" to the previous question, I do not doubt the legitimacy of Maine's elections so I am not seeking any specific voting reform.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
It is important to look at all the costs of any given policy, not just one specific cost. Looking at only one specific cost while disregarding all other costs was a tragic mistake in the way COVID policy was handled, and it caused a dramatic uptick in drug overdoses and deaths of despair not just in Maine but all over. I will be sure not to disregard costs related to mental health and deaths of despair when I contribute to policymaking.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
This is a result of remote schooling, which I strongly believe is inferior to in-person education in general, but certainly better suits high-income students than low-income students. This is another example of COVID-related policy which backfired by failing to consider all the types of costs while focusing on just one. I do not believe there is any magical way we can make students who fell behind for no fault of their own "catch up" and gain back what they lost, but it is crucial that we don't make any future policy--whether related to education or not--in such a poorly thought out way.
Gov. Janet Mills and the administration of President Joe Biden are pursuing a pilot offshore wind project in federal waters off the Maine coast. Do you support it and can it coexist with the fisheries industry?
I generally do not support government subsidized projects in the energy sector, nor other sectors. Government subsidies skew the economics which provide the fundamental information on which people seek to make rational decisions related to the allocation of resources. The economic skew reduces efficiency, increases waste, drives inflation, and creates undeserved windfalls and artificial failures. The increasing level of government involvement in energy policy and spending will be a disaster if it is not reversed.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I am a practical individual seeking to address practical issues. The government presently has too much involvement in our day-to-day lives, is too broad and inefficient, and produces policy that makes Maine lack the competitiveness it needs to attract, retain, and support its residents and small businesses. These are the practical issues I seek to address as I seek to help make Maine more livable and workable for all. We are focusing far too much on headline issues and partisan talking points, many of which are largely outside the scope and purview of the Maine legislature, at the cost of our pressing day-to-day needs.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
We need to help more Mainers invest in weatherization to make their homes more efficient, and improve access to heating assistance programs.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Easier
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I would like to see our right to reproductive healthcare, including safe abortion care, protected in our state constitution.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
A shortage of workforce housing is an issue that is deeply impacting my district and coastal and island communities across the state. I would like to explore ways we can incentivize building workforce housing to provide more year round rental opportunities and paths to home ownership for local residents.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
The Legislature should consider expanding automatic voter registration so that more people use their opportunity to vote and shape the policies that will guide our state forward.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
My top policy priority is increasing access to harm reduction services. Harm reduction helps keep people alive until they are ready to seek help. Too many families in Maine have experienced a devastating loss and we must do everything we can to stop this crisis from killing more of our friends, family, and neighbors.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
We need to work towards finding a solution to our teacher shortage, and provide more supports for students who need help in the classroom. Our teachers are underpaid and overworked. This is an issue for the government and for our communities to work together and solve. As a former member of my local school board, I know firsthand that successful schools require buy-in and encouragement at all levels.
Gov. Janet Mills and the administration of President Joe Biden are pursuing a pilot offshore wind project in federal waters off the Maine coast. Do you support it and can it coexist with the fisheries industry?
I am concerned about the potential impacts of offshore wind on our fisheries. As these projects move forward in federal waters it is imperative that fishermen be engaged in the process and that we evaluate potential fisheries conflicts and mitigate them to the greatest extent possible. We must do everything we can to protect the sustainability of our fisheries and the families and communities who depend on our marine resources.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I am a working mother and a member of the LGBTQ community. I will work hard to assure that every child is valued for who they are. I know so many of my neighbors are working mothers too, and I will carry their voices to Augusta.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
The top policy that I would fight for in Augusta would be helping create a more efficient system for folks to receive heating assistance. Several of our friends and neighbors have spent weeks and months enduring cold and too-often unsafe conditions because they were waitlisted for heating assistance. This could have catastrophic consequences and shouldn't happen.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Easier
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I would like to see access to safe abortion care as a right specified in our state constitution. I also would like to increase access to abortion care across the Maine, as demand for appointments has already gone up with people coming north to receive the care they can’t access in southern and midwestern states. Additionally, I would like to see extra supports for people working in the medical field across the state. The last two years have been extremely challenging for healthcare workers. We need to support the hard working folks who spend their energy keeping us healthy.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
We need to consider ways to incentivize homeowners to list their rentals as long term rather than short term. AirBnB guarantees rental income and covers much of the liability. Folks who own rental properties have to weigh that against long term rentals where the income is significantly less and the risk is significantly higher. This isn't a reasonable option if we expect to have rental housing available for families who live here year round. We should also consider ways to capitalize on the AirBnB market. Some cities in the US have required licensing fees for AirBnBs. That revenue could be used for building workforce housing for local residents.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
We should conduct an evaluation of the number of polling locations across the state and make sure that voting is accessible for everyone. Your vote is your voice and people shouldn’t have to wait in long lines to be heard.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Overdose prevention, harm reduction, and increasing access to treatment are issues that are immensely important to me. Every first responder in the state should be mandated to carry Naloxone. There have been thousands of instances in Maine where Naloxone has saved a life. I recently organized a training in my community on how to administer Naloxone. It is easy to administer and there is no reason it shouldn't be in the hands of every law enforcement officer, EMT, and firefighter. I would also increase access to recovery programming, detox centers, and rehabilitation homes. Too often in Maine, people who are ready to get sober are added to waitlists for open beds. Families suffering from opioid use disorder cannot afford for their loved ones to wait on a list.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
As a school board member/teacher, I know we need to do more to support teachers. Many teaching positions in Maine are empty. I support the recent legislation that set base salary for teachers at $40,000, but that incentive didn’t go far enough to fill the gaps in our education system. In Maine, some people with no experience feel they can dictate what is taught and baseless accusations are being lobbed at educators. Teachers are being made to do so much for students and are not being compensated fairly based on the cost of living, their education levels, the hours they work, class sizes, and external political and social pressures. If we could fill teaching positions with high quality teachers across Maine, the gaps would begin to close and the long-term benefit to students would be huge.
Gov. Janet Mills and the administration of President Joe Biden are pursuing a pilot offshore wind project in federal waters off the Maine coast. Do you support it and can it coexist with the fisheries industry?
I am working hard to do some research into this issue presently. I adamantly support the Maine lobster fishery, though, and will work hard to make sure the hardworking fishermen and women are heard throughout the legislative process.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I have three young children and am keenly aware of the challenges working families face in accessing childcare and early childhood education. The current Administration has made efforts to incentivize folks to open facilities, but in my conversations with voters, it hasn't been enough. In addition to the requirements for licensing from the state, child care center operators need buildings to house their facilities and those buildings must meet a number of specific criteria. While the grants help, they don't provide enough support to make significant headway.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Increased heating assistance, home weatherization, heat pump rebates.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Abortion rights in Maine now allow abortions up to viability and beyond that when the life of the mother is in jeopardy and should remain settled law. I will work to protect a woman's right to choose in Maine.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
I will study and support legislation and programs like LD2003 that seek to remove local barriers to new, innovative, multilevel, affordable housing.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
I will work towards time saving initiatives to make it easier for eligible Maine citizens to register while dealing with different Maine Agencies. I will also work towards greater access to absentee ballots
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
My focus will be to consider and research all ideas to stem this epidemic, including education, prevention, treatment, access to treatment, affordability of treatment, and enforcement efforts to stop the flow of heroin and fentanyl.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Continue to fund education at 55% to let local school districts have the funds necessary to meet this challenge locally.
Gov. Janet Mills and the administration of President Joe Biden are pursuing a pilot offshore wind project in federal waters off the Maine coast. Do you support it and can it coexist with the fisheries industry?
I will support green energy efforts that are compatible with the Maine fishing industry and work towards those efforts that find real solutions for both.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
My life experiences have taught me many things, foremost among therm is an ability to really listen to others, identify challenges , be collaborative in finding innovative solutions, and act to solve those problems.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Less regulation, lower taxes, reduce spending and financial support for those struggling due to harmful public policy
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
None
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Propose major policies to ajust local comprehensive plans, zoning ordinances, creative building and design solutions and life cycle cost analysis of construction methods while working with towns and cities unlike the policy proposed in the 130th Legislature!
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Voter ID
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Voter identification
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Stiffer penalties for trafficking and childhood education
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Parental involvement in curriculum and education oversight, lower costs and have funding follow the student
As part of plans to spur housing development, Auburn has proposed rezoning 150 acres near Lake Auburn. Lewiston has sued, arguing it endangers the public water source for both cities. How should the cities resolve this dispute?
No
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
Reduce energy costs, repeal over regulation and return employees to jobs that have been banned from work by politicians and administrators based on their vaccine status.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Mainers are hard hit by high energy costs. We need to encourage cheaper energy sources to come to Maine and stop adding cost to our energy supply through poor legislation.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I believe abortion is a decision best suited for a family and their physician. I also believe that this is a discussion that deserves much compassion from all stakeholders, and that approach will be an important component of my outlook on legislating. People are hurting for so many reasons right now and more divisiveness and partisanship is not the answer. I respect the viewpoint of both sides of this issue but feel it is a decision for individuals to make for themselves.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
This is mostly a result of the impact of post COVID shutdowns globally, which created huge supply chain issues with a stagnated economy. Building materials are harder to find and are far more expensive. New construction is down and is cost prohibitive. This creates a high demand with low supply, driving up prices. Maine has an abundance of natural resources and could be poised to capitalize on producing lumber and manufacturing construction supplies, solving supply chain issues, making building more affordable, and bringing in more jobs to our state.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
more detail is needed
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
I am in support of voter verification, requiring identification and applying a common-sense approach that gives people confidence in our elections. In Maine, you must show proof of identity and residency to register to vote, but are currently not required to, to vote.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
During 2021 Maine reported an average of 658 drug overdoses with 49 fatal each month. During that same time there were nearly 56,000 doses of naloxone distributed. We are in a war against the harm caused by illicit drug consumption and sales. We are battling for people’s lives, and the safety and wellbeing of our communities. I believe in a pragmatic approach to a drug control strategy, one that recognizes the importance of: enforcement, accountability, access to treatment, access to recovery, the lowering of barriers to sustained recovery, and education. We all bear responsibility towards working to a manageable solution.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
We have so many wonderful and dedicated teachers in the state of Maine, I believe the best answer for this question would be to start with getting their input and perspective. It is the teachers in the classrooms that can tell us what’s working and what isn’t.
During the pandemic, homelessness has worsened in the Bangor area, a hub for regional services. What can the state do to improve conditions for this population?
After speaking with one of the directors of an area shelter, I learned that nearly 170 homeless in our community are unsheltered. Interestingly enough, our shelters regularly have vacant beds. A large majority of our homeless population suffer with substance use disorders with many having co-occurring mental health challenges. Ensuring there is access to mental health services is necessary, for without it there is no real solution. Accountability is another key component, for individuals who commit crimes but refuse available services. Homelessness will likely never be eradicated but addressing the root cause of substance use disorder and access to mental health services seem to be a logical place to begin.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I believe in a collaborative approach towards solving critical problems. In doing so, it’s all about getting input from the right stakeholders: the people doing the jobs and facing the problems day in and day out, the people impacted, the policy makers, and the subject matter experts. It’s about trying to drill down to root causes and not apply band-aid solutions, to employ solutions that make sense both ethically and fiscally. I believe in putting people before politics. I pride myself on my work ethic, and will work tirelessly to serve my constituency.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Get as much federal assistance as possible.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
leave it alone/Can we address the male's responsibility?
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
low interest loans to rehab the many vacant buildings within our cities and towns.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
refer to last answer
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Protect land and water borders, nationally and in Maine.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
test to identify where the gaps are relative to subject matter; math, reading ,science etc. as well as to demographics.
During the pandemic, homelessness has worsened in the Bangor area, a hub for regional services. What can the state do to improve conditions for this population?
address the route causes of homelessness, mental illness and drug addiction.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
My ability to reach across the aisle and compromise.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
I want to make sure that Mainers have access to programs to help them heat their homes efficiently and affordably. Inflation is affecting all of us, and it’s getting much harder to stretch our dollars. Low and middle income families are struggling the most. I will work to expand access to heating assistance programs so more Mainers are able to get the help they need. I will advocate to make heat pumps more affordable by expanding rebate offers, and support programs that help Mainers weatherize their homes.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Easier
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Maine has made incredible progress over the past few years in expanding health care and reproductive health access. I am proud of the protections that our state has in place regarding access to safe abortions. I currently sit on the statewide Reproductive Health Policy Coalition with a number of organizations and activists, these priorities are important to me. I would champion a policy that would codify abortion rights in Maine law, in order to protect this access for future generations.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Renting costs have increased beyond affordability for so many Mainers, our rental housing market is among the least affordable in the nation. When over half of Maine’s low-income earners are paying more than half of their income for rent, we have a problem that requires immediate attention from our leaders in Augusta. I will pursue a comprehensive set of solutions to address this issue, and work with expert housing advocates to do so. I will fight against predatory housing practices, work to expand rental assistance programs, and find ways to make home owning easier for first-time homebuyers.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
I am delighted about the progress that we have made with automatic voter registration. The pandemic has shown us that we need to prepare for the unpredictable. I would like to see Maine pursue additional voting reforms that would remove barriers at the ballot box. One such proposal would be to implement a program which would automatically mail ballots to registered voters every election, if they choose. Maine would join 8 other states that successfully use this system and allow voters more time to research candidates ahead of Election Day. This would ensure voters the chance to make their voice heard and participate in the election despite barriers such as inflexible work hours, lack of childcare or transportation, or having a disability that keeps them from making it to the polls.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
I have seen firsthand the devastating impacts of the opioid epidemic here in Bangor and the rippling heartbreak it has brought to Mainers and their families. I have spent part of my career as a public health advocate with a local agency and have volunteered for years with a harm reduction organization. I support the distribution of Narcan to community members to help save lives. I will work to better fund and expand recovery homes and programs to better meet needs and eliminate long waitlists.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
There have been great strides to support students such as expanded access to free lunch programs. I’m also incredibly proud that high school graduates through 2023 will receive 2 years of free community college.
The pandemic has shown us the glaring inequities in access to reliable internet. Many students in rural areas struggle to participate in virtual learning. Internet is a necessary utility for families. I will support efforts to expand broadband access statewide. Early childhood education programs give kids a head start to better prepare them to launch their school careers. Expanding access and eligibility to these programs will help working and low-income parents. Increasing funding to these programs will help childcare facilities be more sustainable and better support their staff.
During the pandemic, homelessness has worsened in the Bangor area, a hub for regional services. What can the state do to improve conditions for this population?
As your representative, I will seek proposals that will aim to do more than just improve conditions. We must seek housing-first solutions for Maine families in ways that meet the unique needs of our community. We need to remember that the homeless population are our neighbors too, they deserve dignity and respect. Our district is the home of all of the city’s major homeless shelters, warming centers, and day programs. I will work to ensure that these community members and their needs are properly represented in the State House. I will work to pass laws that will fund the expansion of safe low-income housing, increase access to much needed housing vouchers, and better support our general assistance programs.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
My work as a service provider within our community will give me a unique perspective in seeking legislative solutions. My years of advocating at the State House and the relationships I’ve built with legislators across the state has given me tools that I need to be an effective State Representative from day one in Augusta.. The needs of our city and the people who call it home will always be my top priority, and I will commit to being a resource and advocate for my constituents. I hope that I will earn your vote on November 8th.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Policies targeted at making homes more energy efficient while diversifying heating/cooling sources will be a priority. Mainers who are reliant on one fuel source are disproportionately affected by rising prices. I would champion the release of funds made available through the Maine Jobs and Recovery Plan to get a second heat source into homes. Energy efficient alternatives such as a wood stove or heat pump offer rebates/cash back from Efficiency Maine direct to the consumer. A high-performance heat pump or wood stove can help an average Maine home reduce its oil consumption by 270-540 gallons/year or $1,620 at $4/gallon. Heat pumps offer an added benefit by reducing cooling costs in the warmer months.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
In the wake of the Supreme Court striking down Roe v. Wade, it is vital that Maine take the necessary steps to protect women’s reproductive health. Recently an executive order was signed to further safeguard access to abortion in Maine and to protect healthcare providers in the state who provide reproductive health care and their patients. I want to continue to support women's reproductive health and provide any legislation to safeguard that right within the State.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
The housing affordability crisis in Maine has increased over the past few years and mirrors a national trend. We have not been building enough units to meet demand. Supply chain issues from the pandemic have decreased the availability of, and increased the price tag of new construction. Supporting contractors who build affordable housing is the way to increase available units for buyers looking to achieve the dream of home ownership. I propose offering a tax incentive or rebate to builders who provide affordable housing as defined by the legislature with the input from the people.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Legislators on the federal level are working to modernize the framework of the Electoral Count Act of 1887. The Electoral Count Modernization Act (2022) seeks to establish clear, consistent, and fair procedures for the counting and certification of electoral votes for the presidency. I would introduce similar voting reform such as, ensuring that state legislators cannot appoint electors after Election Day in an effort to overturn our state’s election results. Give the additional time (until December 20) to complete legitimate recounts and litigation and provide limited judicial review to ensure that the electors appointed by Maine reflect the popular vote results.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Illegally manufactured Fentanyl is fueling the increase in drug overdoses. It’s up to 100 times as powerful as morphine and is used to cut cocaine, meth, fake opioid pills and heroin in a blatant exploitation of unwitting users to increase illicit drug profits. From 2019 to 2021, Fentanyl overdose deaths more than tripled among teenagers. Teens often have no idea what is in the drugs they are taking. I want to pass legislation to easily make available Fentanyl test strips to all Mainers, and especially to our teenage population, in a variety of accessible locations. The testing strips won’t eliminate the crisis but they can help people stay safe, especially teenagers and young adults.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Maine has greater than 500,000 people or roughly 44% of the State’s population who are 50 years of age or older. Teachers in public schools are being asked to do more with less. I want to use the vast retired population as a volunteer resource to help address the educational gaps between the high-income and low-income students. Mentoring the low-income group could have positive impacts for both populations and I would draft legislation to that effect.
During the pandemic, homelessness has worsened in the Bangor area, a hub for regional services. What can the state do to improve conditions for this population?
"I would propose a private public partnership to promote rent to home ownership options in return for a population that could address the staffing shortages in many businesses across the area. Prior to that however there would need to be mental health resources provided to address any pressing issues."
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
For the past 24 years as a Realtor, and prior to that as a Kinesiologist, I have helped people through teamwork and crafting creative and ethical solutions to keep the process moving forward. My experience and skill set in working collaboratively with others to bring about a desired outcome make me uniquely qualified to serve in the State House. Earlier this year my older brother moved into our household. He suffered a traumatic brain injury over 41 years ago. Through the process of getting him settled, I have become intimately acquainted with social services, medical personnel and special programs to meet his needs. Brain injuries, support of social services and housing issues will be my special focus.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Any relief we can give to Mainers on fuel and heating assistance will be vital. People should not have to choose between food and heat as large corporate oil companies are rolling in profits.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Easier
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Expanding access to rural abortions and transportation.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Increasing the construction of PUBLIC HOUSING. We need 20,000 units in Maine and right now we are lucky to construct 1000 a year. We also need to work with our federal delegation to address restrictions on housing that HUD has put in place.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Our laws are headed in the right direction.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Folks in my district are still afraid to call 911 on an overdose. While the Good Samaritan Law has helped just because someone doesn't get arrested doesn't mean a negative target isn't put on their back by DHHS. We need to address ALL the ways our system works against those in active addiction.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
By investing in supports and housing for lower income folks and making the internet accessible to everyone.
During the pandemic, homelessness has worsened in the Bangor area, a hub for regional services. What can the state do to improve conditions for this population?
The state needs to build housing and provide services for folks in rural parts of the state, not just Portland. When rural Northern Maine does better, Bangor does better.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I will continue my work to expand transportation, housing and crisis services in Bangor and rural Maine.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Stopping price gouging and keep utility providers from exorbitant price increases. I'm also working to make Mainers aware of all of the programs and initiatives we have in place already to offset heating costs, the cost of prescription drugs, senior property tax relief and others.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Easier
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Improving access to emergency contraception
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Continuing to explore state/municipal partnerships on zoning reforms to encourage developers to build more affordable and mixed affordable/market developments in Bangor.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Expand automatic voter registration.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
We're seeing the positive impact of recovery housing in Bangor. I'd like to see more private/public partnerships to compassionately tackle the opiod epidemic in our city.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
We need to identify the schools that were most negatively impacted by the pandemic and other inherent inequities and work with the districts to create and pilot new programs to help students catch up.
During the pandemic, homelessness has worsened in the Bangor area, a hub for regional services. What can the state do to improve conditions for this population?
We need transitional housing as a step between homeless shelters and permanent housing with support services such as social workers, recovery programs and employment counseling. Also, if shelters are not wheelchair accessible, there should be a grant program to help them with accessibility improvements.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I am particularly concerned about the PFAS contamination around the Maine Air National Guard base, financial security for working class folks and access to mental health care.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
This is a national, global problem. I will champion and advocate for old Mainers whose state retirement was hammered under previous administration because COLA was capped.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
None
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Will work with legislstive colleagues and administration to establish available and affordable workforce housing.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Keep system in place. Maine has one of the highest voter turnout results.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Continue to support local and state efforts in place that assist people in recovery.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
1) Broadband 2) Expanded pre-K 3) Provide meals for students 4) Resources for special needs
During the pandemic, homelessness has worsened in the Bangor area, a hub for regional services. What can the state do to improve conditions for this population?
Shift homelessness (and addiction) to the counties. People should receive more support from their own communities.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
My experience as a local and state official and as a small business owner for 30 years.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Make sure that we continue passing laws that help with fuel assistance and that people know how to access the assistance
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Maine has strong abortion policies. We need to make sure these laws are maintained and not loosened.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
we need to keep supporting affordable housing construction and help new house buyers with affordable housing.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Help voters that don't have easy access to the polls receive absentee ballots.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
We need better care for drug users not jail. We need to support drug recovery programs
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
We are facing a loss generation of students. Some students fared quite well, but I believe many from all income levels suffered. School systems may have to invest in more mentoring/tutoring programs to help the students catch up.
As part of plans to spur housing development, Auburn has proposed rezoning 150 acres near Lake Auburn. Lewiston has sued, arguing it endangers the public water source for both cities. How should the cities resolve this dispute?
No
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
Experience. I feel that term limits have taken away institutional memory. As people gain more experience- they term out. New legislators- which isn't a bad thing either- hve to start over to gain the experience.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Inflation and high energy prices are systemic macroeconomic problems with no easy solutions, especially at the state level. We need a multipronged approach that includes energy conservation, localization of energy production and consumption, and a rapid expansion of wind, tidal, photovoltaic, and geothermal infrastructure to replace (not add to) fossil energy. Reducing highway speed limits saves gasoline and greenhouse emissions. Microgrids linked to renewable/rebuildable energies can run heat pumps instead of oil furnaces and make communities more resilient to climate-related disruptions, especially as winters become milder but hotter summers demand air-conditioning. Maine should work with Federal government to levy windfall profit taxes on fossil-fuel companies to expand LIHEAP.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Easier
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Contraception and Plan B should be readily available & affordable for any women who want it, and should be part of a comprehensive plan to ensure that all women have access to regular physical exams and preventative health care, especially in rural communities. This includes subsidies or coverage through Maine Care. Furthermore, Maine should be a sanctuary state for women whose home state has taken away their right to control their own bodies. We should welcome women traveling to Maine for an abortion and ensure our health care providers are protected from prosecution by other states.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Large corporations, especially financial/banking institutions, should not own residential housing, because their focus will be on maximizing profits on the backs of residents rather than providing safe, affordable housing for reasonable costs. Windfall taxes should be levied on companies who fail to provide safe, affordable housing and proceeds returned to low-income residents as subsidies to help cover high housing costs. Tax credits could incentivize property owners who demonstrate they can provide safe, affordable housing. Properties left vacant for long periods of time (say, 4 consecutive months) should be taxed at a much higher rate than occupied properties, and proceeds should also be used to subsidize housing for residents in need.
5 Yes
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Maine has a strong record of ensuring its citizens the right to vote in safe and secure elections, which is the cornerstone of freedom and democracy. Easy access to vote both in person and absentee / mail-in ballots keeps Maine a leader in upholding our freedoms set forth in the constitution. We must continue providing and improving ease & access of voting for ALL eligible residents by increasing the number of dropoff boxes, expanding early voting, and designating election day a State Holiday, Maine should enact laws to prohibit intentional and malicious spreading of disinformation by politicians and operatives that discourage, prevent, or intimidate people from voting. Finally, we should implement ranked-choice voting for state and local offices.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Maine should expand rehabilitation centers and public services, supporting their health care professionals and social workers with good pay & working conditions to avoid burnout. Narcan should be readily available to first responders and any private citizen who might need it, for themselves or others. Systemic contributors of drug addiction such as poverty, lack of opportunity, and childhood exposure are resistant to ‘quick-fixes’ and solutions require long-term thinking and investments.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
The economic divide among students and school districts has been a problem for decades, increasingly during COVID. Education is a vital component of democracy, and should be considered an investment rather than just another expenditure. Quality education requires well-paid and highly-trained teachers, small class size, equitable access to technology, and opportunities tailored to different learning styles for all students in all schools, not just those wealthy students and districts. Breakfast and lunch programs are vital for students who otherwise come to school hungry and can’t learn, and after-school programs help kids whose parents work long hours. Public funds should not be used to support private schools.
Maine is one of just two states that does not allow Sunday hunting. Would you support it? Outline any conditions for your answer.
While I support hunting, I DO NOT support Sunday hunting. Maine owns very little public land and most outdoor recreation occurs on private / corporate-owned property. Non-hunters should be able to recreate outdoors one day a week without fear of encountering hunters or bearhounds at bay, or risking injury from a stray bullet. Sunday hunting could lead to more posting of private property: non-hunters without a day of sanctuary will post their land to keep hunters off. Finally, wildlife and hunters benefit from a break in hunting pressure. My neighbors who hunt in both Maine and New York tell me they prefer no hunting on Sunday because deer are less stressed if they have relief after heavy pressure on Saturday.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I was a welder and pipefitter for 40 years, and own a small business. I know firsthand what it is like to be a single parent, working hard but still struggling to make ends meet, and being denied health insurance. Our economy should work for everyone, not just the rich and well-connected. I believe in a hand up for those who need it, hands off for those who don’t, and no handouts to corporations. My passion is protecting our environment, especially against out-of-state interests. I helped my community fight out-of-state trash and stop the proposed Argyle Dump. Economic opportunities for present and future generations depend on a healthy environment. Mainers have the right to clean air, drinkable water, healthy soil, safe food, harvestable fish and wildlife, and a livable climate.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Inflation is not just a Maine problem or a United States problem. Inflation is a world wide problem. When I am elected to the legislature it is my job to focus on the specific needs of Mainers and advocate for the unique needs of folks in my district.
Maine has a 21% senior population. The largest town in my district, Lincoln, has 28% of it's residents age 65 or older. Nearly a third of it's residents living on a fixed income.
Penobscot county additionally has 12% of it's residents living in poverty. For those residents I would ensure ease of accessibility to programs we already have in place like the winterization and HEAP. I would propose an outreach program to all qualifying residents.
For the other 2/3 of residents, I will consider a rate freeze on utility providers.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Easier
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Above all else, I will work to ensure that peoples right to privacy is fiercely protected. I would consider increasing the penalty for violation of privacy (relating to abortion) as protected under the fourth amendment to the United States Constitution. Harassments over healthcare will no longer be tolerated. It's between a woman, her doctor and her God, not any of us.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. I would advocate to increase access and affordability for all women's healthcare. I would ensure that access and affordability to Annual check ups, birth control, Pre & post natal care, testing, EC and abortion, is expanded.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Aside of encouraging my brethren in congress to invest in housing development and pass that federal funding to our state, I will work on common sense solutions. We work with what we have.
Within the confines of the law; I would work to enact preference for current Maine residents and limit corporate purchase of single family homes as investment properties during a housing crisis. I would work to enable Maine corporations to have preference in building multi family units so that those tax dollars and revenue are reinvested in Maine. I would stipulate a percentage of affordable housing in each multi-unit dwelling for this preference. Increase unit requirement for low income housing to out of state corporate developers.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
I would move to apply the state's ranked choice voting to statewide elections, including gubernatorial. Increase education and understanding of how RCV works, starting in schools. Kids have a unique way of teaching us older generations how to do new things.
If we have learned how to follow a thread and posts on social media, we can learn how to use ranked choice voting. It's much like telling a waiter what your first second and third choices are on a menu, if dinner were by consensus. If you only like one thing on the menu, you select only that one. If you are willing to have a second choice, select it as your second choice. If you only select one and it wasn't the top selection by consensus, you don't eat. Selecting a 2nd choice increases your odds of eating & getting what you want.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
I would work to ensure that resources are available in every community for the substance use disordered people. I would ensure that all of those recovery support networks have the resources they need to help our citizens recover and thrive. Access to compassionate care is a good start.
Listening to those who have recovered and how they arrived in recovery can help us devise a plan of action to heal our communities. We can look at how other communities overcame the crisis and model some of those strategies. We may end up with a plan that other states will model if we give this our attention and talent.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
We did not have a roadmap for education during a pandemic. All things considered, our educators and communities banded together and rose to the occasion. Children in low income families had more to deal with than just learning, as they watched their caregivers struggle in real time. Some students didn't have access to the internet.
We are working to expand broadband with will cure the latter issue. As for the rest of the issues, we learned from our experiences and we now have procedures in place if there is a next time. We are working on expanding childcare which was a huge issue for working families with children, during the pandemic.
Preventing the next crisis and implementing what worked, is the best plan. The kids will catch up.
Maine is one of just two states that does not allow Sunday hunting. Would you support it? Outline any conditions for your answer.
I am not a hunter. I don't know why we don't allow hunting on Sundays. When I am in the legislature I will either hear good arguments for the ban or I will move to allow Sunday hunting.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I foresee some huge challenges facing all Mainers in the next few years. I plan to mitigate these issues and hopefully get ahead of them before they reach crisis levels. I am talking about everything from inflation to climate change impact, and a myriad of issues in-between. That is my focus.
My priority is to find solid & creative solutions with my fellow legislators, agencies and experts and implement these solutions so seamlessly that the good people of Maine do not experience interruption in their lives or livelihood. We need solutions that work for everyone. The goal is to not only survive but to thrive.
The unique needs of my communities need to be heard and addressed in Augusta. I am prepared to make sure they are.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Heating and oil cost for Maine residents have been an ongoing challenge for us. There is a need to expidite assistance via LIHEAP or similar programs. Additional weatherization funding may help many dwellers with older structures that lack modern construction methods. This should also me made available to renters/landlords as well.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I am pro choice. I find it abhorrent that some states are making a woman’s choice a criminal act. There must be safeguards to insure that those seeking an abortion are protected from criminal investigations. There needs to be a provision that protects not only the individual’s rights but include protections to the medical facilities and staff that provide this service.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Many rural Maine communities have a considerable number of vacant dwellings. Some are owned by lenders or absentee landlords that find it more financially advantageous to demolish the structures than to repair or reinvest in the community. While there may be some buildings that do not warrant repair, there are many that are too large to attract new inhabitants due to utility costs. Land use restrictions should be changed to encourage these homes to be made into duplexes or low density apartments while providing minimum impacts to existing neighborhoods.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Allow Rank-Choice-Voting in all Maine elections; Strengthen the protection of absentee voting from future endeavor to abolish or weakin it by making any threshold to change the constitutional provision more difficult.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Treat addiction as the disease that it is and provide the educational opportunities to the various medical and educational institutions to keep abreast of the changing treatments. Focus more resources on the supply chain and require working with other state and federal agencies to go beyond the local drug pushers.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Ensure that all students have safe, capable access to high-speed internet. Provide 24 hour access to assistance when requested. Identify those who are having difficulties understanding and using educational processes and provide the educational institutions with the accessible resources to ensure the student gets needed support.
Maine is one of just two states that does not allow Sunday hunting. Would you support it? Outline any conditions for your answer.
As a farmer and a hunter, I support the Sunday prohibition of hunting. Sundays allow us to access our fields and woods without fear of being the hunted. It allows for hunting parties to engage in useful projects around the hunting camp or on the property during daylight hours.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I am an environmental planner and I have a strong background in hazard mitigation and particularly with flood mitigation and flood insurance. Mitigation is less costly than recovery.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Inflation is a global problem. It is important to understand that no single state is going to be able to resolve it. There are things that we are doing at the state level to help ease the burdens on families, such as streamlining the process for applying for heating assistance and providing financial assistance to eligible Mainers through the Home Energy Assistance Program to help pay heating costs and passing legislation for property tax relief for seniors aged 65 and older who have owned their homes for 10 yrs. While workers struggle to keep up with inflation, much of the money they spend is going into the pocket’s of corporate shareholders whose profits rose 25% in 2021, the highest in 45 yrs. We need to stop this price gouging and hold these corporations accountable for their actions.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I am adamantly opposed to any changes in Maine’s current abortion laws. As a physician, I find the U. S. Supreme Court’s recent decision of ending protections for abortion rights for women to be very disturbing. To say that a woman is incapable of making her own decisions regarding her own personal health care, and her decision in this regard must be approved by the government, is to openly say to women that they are second class citizens. This is an affront to every woman and makes it crystal clear that equal protection is not available to women. A woman’s decision on her health care is strictly one made between her and her physician and should never be superseded by government interference. Access to reproductive health care for women is not and should never be a political issue.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
In 2021, the Commission to Increase Housing Opportunities in Maine released its report on this issue. Statewide, 72% of occupied housing units were owned and 28% were rented. Pre-pandemic, growth in rental units outpaced those that were owned. In 2020, the median home price in Maine was $256,000, a 14% increase over 2019, and the number of housing units sold in the same year was 19,921, a 10% increase. This median price is unaffordable for most Maine families. Maine can continue funding for the construction of new housing in partnership with the private sector, ensure that the entirety of Maine’s properties is not owned by out of state investment companies, evaluate policies regarding short term rentals, and ensure that agricultural lands are not driven into extinction.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
It is my belief that Maine’s election system is one of the safest and most secure in the nation. We also have the right people in place to ensure that the right to vote by every Maine citizen is well protected. Opportunities to make the system even better include the expansion of automatic voter registration and an enhanced process for voters to request an ongoing absentee voter status. Consideration should also be given to automatic registration at the time of age eligibility.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Deaths from substance use disorders is not an area that can be resolved via arrests or judgmental shaming. It is a multifaceted problem. A bill that I sponsored, An Act to Establish the Accidental Drug Overdose Death Review Panel, was signed into law as an Emergency by Gov. Mills, and tasked the panel to make recommendations to state, county, and local agencies on methods of preventing deaths from accidental drug overdoses. A Recovery Treatment Center will now be established in all of Maine’s 16 counties. Statewide education by the Office of Opioid Response and the support of the Attorney General’s Office to take on Big Pharma and the Slackler family for their egregious behavior in creating this problem will hopefully garner settlement funds to continue to fight this devastating problem.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
As a result of the pandemic, many students have fallen behind, especially those from low-income families. We must make every effort to identify those students and schools that have been affected the most, as they will need more support. As many of these students have already graduated and are now in college, much of the onus for support has fallen on our Community College System to ensure that students will have the essential tools necessary for them to catch up and be able to find gainful employment as they move forward. We must ensure that our educational system has the financial resources available to them to achieve this goal. Making community college free in Maine for the 2020-2023 graduating classes is certainly a step in the right direction.
Maine is one of just two states that does not allow Sunday hunting. Would you support it? Outline any conditions for your answer.
Sunday hunting prohibition has existed in Maine State Stature since 1883. In a recent comprehensive poll ordered by the Maine Legislature, both landowners and the general public in all parts of the state are strongly opposed to Sunday hunting. Hunting in Maine occurs every day of the year, except Sundays, for a total of 313 days per year. Maine has a tradition of keeping private land accessible for public recreation. Keeping Sunday hunting as the one day a week where no hunting is allowed is an established and effective way for landowners and non-hunters to enjoy the land without impeding the abilities of those who enjoy hunting.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
As a physician, a surgeon, a veteran of the USAF, a former USAF Hospital and Medical Group Commander, a past President of the Maine Medical Association, and a past Chair of the New England Delegation to the American Medical Association, I believe that my leadership skills have prepared me well for continued service and advocacy for others, especially for those who cannot advocate for themselves. In an environment where inequality and greed are over-shadowing the needs of the people, I will continue to fiercely advocate for accessible and affordable health care for every citizen, equal opportunity for all, no matter one’s gender, race, religion, or political party, and work tirelessly to hold health insurance companies, Big Pharma, and energy conglomerates accountable for their actions.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Without a doubt inflation and the high cost of gas, heating, groceries, and the basic everyday necessities impacts all Mainers. Decisive action needs to be taken to give us all a break! There is no one solution to this very real challenge, but there are steps we can and should take. Putting a freeze on utility rates, making the process of receiving heating assistance easier, especially for Seniors. Holding accountable and prosecuting those who engage in price gouging are all good first steps. It is also important to take advantage of programs already in place that can help right now in these difficult times.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
No one should be subject to the government having or desiring to have control over our bodies or our ability to have choice regarding our health care.
We should work to ensure existing legislation remains in place and that those seeking to utilize reproductive healthcare services, and those providing such services are safe in doing so.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Provide and create reasonable incentives for first time homeowners so that they may realize their hope of affordable homeownership if they desire to purchase a home. Rental assistance for those who may qualify if renting is the option they choose again providing that assistance is reasonable.
Explore viable public/private partnerships to create new affordable housing options (single family, multi family) being sensitive to existing community standards and ability to support such projects.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
The Legislature should work hard to create an environment where our greatest civic duty, the right to vote, is forever protected. Removing barriers to voter registration, making the casting of ballots as easy as possible and increasing the ability of Mainers to utilize automatic voter registration where possible need to be continuous works in progress and protected by law here in Maine.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
We need to strengthen and expand community resources to aid in the recovery of those struggling with addiction.
Expand access to, and training in the use of Naloxone (Narcan).
Drug traffickers and dealers need to be subject to the full extent of the law and maximum sentencing.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
The educational gap created as a result of the pandemic will not be closed within the same period of time that it was created in. School districts and local community colleges should consider looking at any best practices models that develop across the nation as this is not just a local issue. Bridge programs for those students most adversely affected should be developed to aid them in overcoming any deficits that they have suffered because of this unprecedented period of time.
Maine is one of just two states that does not allow Sunday hunting. Would you support it? Outline any conditions for your answer.
I would support Sunday Hunting. However, I would ask that the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife conduct a study after two years to see if the impacts of Sunday hunting have had any negative impacts on the game populations in the state, and identify any other unintended consequences, if any, of Sunday hunting that may arise.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I am tired of the politics of obstruction and seek a return to the politics of inclusion, civility and respect EVEN when in opposition. Nothing is accomplished when "no" is the answer to every question. Elected officials must represent those they are elected to serve FIRST before self or party. All are entitled to effective, responsive and engaged representation regardless of color, creed or national origin. WE CAN DO BETTER!
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Inflation is curently a global issue and state leaders do not have a one size fits all remedy for addressing inflation challenges. We need to collaborate to work strategically and practically to address this issue realistically, by creating streamlined processes, preventing large corporations from increasing rates, and ensuring that the work of the legislature is shared with Mainers, so that they are aware of all of the programs are available to assist them when navigating these challenges.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Mainers of all political parties' value having control and the power to decide what people do with their bodies and their healthcare choices. We should be free from government intervention when those rights are challenged. People should be able to access these health services in Maine, and healthcare providers need to be ensured protection.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
Ensuring that programs that support first-time homeownership are able to compete in our current competitive real estate market. This would assist Mainers in having opportunities to purchase home. Reviewing how our currently policies regarding short term rental properties haven't met the needs of our communities, and how this impacts future housing development, while also including consideration of continuing to support healthy agricultural land, as we develop and implement housing policies.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Developing an effective and constant process for voters to request and obtain absentee voter status, so they will automatically receive and absentee ballot for state-wide elections. Increasing voter registration opportunities so that Mainers have greater access to state agencies that assist in helping them register to vote.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
It is imperative that effective resources are available and easily accessible, and that recovery support services have adequate resources and funding to fully support people in recovery.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
It is important for schools to be identified that were significantly impacted during the pandemic. Students that have fallen behind academically need to have access to additional educational support systems, including tutoring, summer programs, and mentoring, and that these educational resources and opportunities are a priority and are accessible.
Maine is one of just two states that does not allow Sunday hunting. Would you support it? Outline any conditions for your answer.
Most of the land that people hunt on in Maine is privately owned, and therefore, we need to be sensitive about how private landowners feel about Sunday hunting. Sunday hunting has been a long-standing issue in Maine. In the past, private landowners have expressed that they want to be able to walk their lands on Sundays, and while there may be economic benefits to Sunday hunting, I want to support the will of the majority of Mainers. Landowners have expressed in the past that they would post "No Hunting" signs on their land if Sunday hunting were allowed, and we want to ensure that hunters are allowed access to hunting opportunities.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
It is crucial for Maine to focus on attracting young people to Maine in order to increase and maintain our workforce. More Mainers are retiring, (The Maine Chamber of Commerce reported that Maine has 75,000 people that will retire during this decade), than are currently becoming part of our workforce. Incentive programs to keep our young adults living and working in Maine, while also working to attract new people to our State, will ensure that our workforce continues to meet the needs of our economy, and also proves opportunities for growth in the future. Creating training programs and opportunities for retired Mainers to continue to contribute to the workforce, even part-time, will also assist in decreasing workforce challenges in communities across Maine.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Increase public awareness of the available programs for assistance: HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program), DEL (Low Cost Drugs for the Elderly and Disabled), the Homestead Exemption Program, Senior Property Tax Relief, Property Tax Fairness Credit, and the like. People cannot utilize these programs if they don't know about them.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Maine has great health care in place for its citizens. This healthcare includes well woman care, and a significant component of that health care is reproductive choice and safe, affordable, and accessible abortion services for those who need them. Keeping funding available for rural medical facilities and emergency services would further the goal of increased maternal health and this is good for the health of the entire family.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
People are living longer, and this is increasing the demand for affordable housing as retirees seek to downsize into apartments. Supply has not kept up with the demand in Maine, or indeed elsewhere in the country. A viable solution is to continue funding the construction of new housing with state money,in conjunction with the private sector. This would have the additional benefit of jobs creation and a boost to our state economy.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Voter registration, or the failure to register, is a big issue in Maine. Outreach through many channels, including tv ads, social media, and streaming services, with reminders to register and instructions for voter registration, would be beneficial in increasing awareness. The legislature could also expand automatic voter registration so that state agencies can assist with voter registration.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Ensuring that municipal, county, and state organizations receive sufficient funding to continue their treatment and recovery services in our communities. Make no mistake, these services are vital to the health of everyone. Insufficient support of treatment facilities and providers leads to higher crime rates, poverty, incarceration, and the breakdown of families, and ultimately affects the economy. We need to treat addiction assertively, and in doing so will save lives and our hard-earned tax money.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
With the world growing more crowded, the likelihood that another pandemic will occur is increasing. We need to be better prepared for the future and this needs to include faster and more reliable broadband access for all, educational support in the form of tutoring and summer "catch-up" programs for negatively impacted students, and the like. This will help keep educational opportunities open to a larger group, and ensure that our children are better prepared to earn a living and contribute to Maine as adults.
Travel to Maine has rebounded strongly, but this tourism season was hampered by massive workforce shortages. What can the Legislature do to help grow this crucial economic sector?
Rules governing waiting periods for immigrants receiving work permits can be adjusted. Most people want to work and contribute to society, and people immigrating from another country are no different. Let's give them the tools they need to integrate into our country and state, by expediting the permitting process, assisting with finding jobs and housing, and, as a result, expanding our tax base for funding infrastructure in Maine.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I am able to work with many people, listen, and consider many different viewpoints when confronted with any issue. I often say that if you ask 100 people the same question, you will get 100 answers, and maybe more. We are all unique, possessing unique insights into all we face in our daily lives. I want to ensure that the citizens in District 37 are heard in Augusta!
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
We need to make the process for applying for heating assistance as streamlined as possible and there must be an easily accessible "off-line" option for applications. Policies that help people conserve energy and be comfortable in their homes is the way forward on the state government level.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
We need to continue to protect women's bodily autonomy by keeping the decision to terminate a pregnancy between the woman and her care provider.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
We need to seriously look at the short term rental market and start to regulate it in such a way as to open up more rental properties to house people in a long term way. I would also want to take a look at the taxing of second and third houses that remain empty much of the year. This extra tax income should be dedicated to building more affordable housing.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
We are so fortunate here in Maine to have good access to voting and because of that a very high voter turn out. Let's continue to support these excellent policies.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
More access to treatment versus incarceration for those who are dependent on opioids, more access to Narcan and other first line treatments, a serious look at the underlying causes of this increased dependency on opioids and policy that would address those core issues.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Well, finally funding education at 55% was a good start. We should definitely spend some of the Covid windfall on increasing our student's access to tutoring and other supplemental educational programs that will help them catch up.
Travel to Maine has rebounded strongly, but this tourism season was hampered by massive workforce shortages. What can the Legislature do to help grow this crucial economic sector?
Continuing to increase the minimum wage so that more people are able to afford to work would be a good start. And by that I mean if gas, childcare, etc are so expensive that it makes taking a job impossible or difficult that will be a hurdle to finding willing workers.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I have, for the last 12 years, worked in the Legislature on re-localizing our food system here in Maine both the Food Sovereignty Act and the Right to Food Amendment are part of that work. I will bring that knowledge and network with me to House. I have also worked on bills regarding the inner workings of the state government and some educational issues. The skill set I have developed in getting these bills passed makes me the best choice for representing the people of District #38
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
I would support suspension of the gas tax for a short time.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Easier
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I would support a policy prohibiting the sharing of any identifying information that an abortion or other reproductive healthcare procedures were performed in Maine.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
I believe local building codes and zoning ordinances must continue to be expanded to include accessory dwelling units (ADU's), tiny homes, mother-in-law apartments, duplex and triplex units and create more local and state incentives to make them happen more quickly.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
I believe we should expand rank choice voting,
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Our opioid crisis requires increasing the presence of Narcan in our communities and expanding the availability of medically assisted treatment.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
We should expand access to universal Pre-K by investing in age appropriate facilities, staffing and right sized vehicles, increase focus on Pre-K to grade three literacy and expand high impact tutoring.
Travel to Maine has rebounded strongly, but this tourism season was hampered by massive workforce shortages. What can the Legislature do to help grow this crucial economic sector?
I believe we should encourage our federal delegation to increase the number of work visas and ease or eliminate seasonal restrictions and incentivize providing work force housing and improve/expand local transportation networks in our smaller cities and towns.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
Maine citizens are not getting appropriate representation that reflects our population in our citizen legislature. Many districts are represented by retirees or those with job flexibility. Steps must be taken to increase compensation so that anyone can afford to serve.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
The same types of groups that recently attacked Maines lobster industry have been waging a war against hydroelectric dams for decades now. It’s a proven, zero emissions way of generating huge amounts of power. I’d support expanding and lifting restrictions on hydro power.
We also should recognize the massive increase we’ve had with everything from gasoline to heating oil and do what’s right by enacting a temporary tax holiday on fuel sales.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I don’t support tax payer dollars paying for abortions. I’m also completely against late term abortion.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
We’re looking at this wrong, renting isn’t permanent housing. And private rentals aren’t low income housing. By lowering energy costs, tax burdens, building Maines economy, creating good paying jobs and making work a better deal than welfare, we can get families on track to becoming homeowners.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
No
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Voter ID
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Addiction isn’t prejudiced and its effecting everyone, most of us know someone who’s suffering from it. Expanding access to inpatient services for people who want to get clean is important. At the same time, I’d like to see harsh penalties for traffickers bringing fentanyl into the state.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Parents should be in charge of their kids educations, not unions or poorly run school districts. I’d support a school choice bill like the one recently passed in Arizona that allows parents to use their tax dollars towards an education were they feel is best for their kids.
Travel to Maine has rebounded strongly, but this tourism season was hampered by massive workforce shortages. What can the Legislature do to help grow this crucial economic sector?
Preserve the tip credit so servers/bartenders can continue to make a living in the industry, and keep government from over regulating the industry.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I want to bring my relevant experiences to the Legislature as a full time worker trying to raise a family. We hear a lot of opinions from Augusta but they’re seldom from people with real experience dealing with the struggles working Mainers face. I want to represent the people of my district as someone who’s seen firsthand the damage caused to families by the opioid epidemic, what it’s like to to get up and go to work every morning trying to keep up with ever increasing bills while out of touch politicians spend money frivolously, someone who wonders if my car will pass inspection while being told I need to buy a Tesla and someone who’s seen what the taxes do to a paycheck with overtime.
I want to bring the middle class back up.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
1.Our first approach is to protect Mainers from any price gouging as we have seen incredible profits in some businesses. Then we should raise the income level for heating fuel assistance so more Mainers who are right on the margins get what they need. Along with that help, we must be more proactive getting the information out regarding programs to help pay for fuel and put a moratorium on utility rate increases.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
3. At this point, I support no changes because we have strong protections now in place. If we see pressure from the other states we should legislate protections for Maine providers who perform abortions on women coming from away.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
4.The state has been moving to help communities deal with the housing issue this last session. We have enacted the Land Bank Act, we have passed a bill helping towns to increase density, and we have put more money into housing. We need to address the issue of homes taken off the market to be used as short-term rentals—probably in a tax bill. Of course, the federal government could review the taxes around mortgages so as to spur public housing construction.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
6. Maine has a rich tradition of giving all citizens the right to vote and should continue to do so. It’s important that we protect our local voting officials from any intimidation. We passed a bill dealing with that issue but might want to strengthen it if there are more episodes of aggression at polling stations. Also, the state must continue to help train local voting officials. That would assist at the polling stations, but we should also look at making ongoing absentee voting allowed. Once you set up this arrangement, it will continue until you opt out.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
7. First we need to reduce the production of prescription opioid painkillers enough to keep the oversupply from fueling the illegal market, while still giving doctors the freedom to prescribe them as needed. But several issues also compound the problem of drug use that ends in overdose. The first is fentanyl, a very strong synthetic opioid which, when cut in unknown ratios with other substances, can quickly be fatal. To combat the immediate reaction, we need to make Narcan readily available and train people to administer it. Likewise, the test strips that can identify fentanyl in an unknown drug before a user takes it should also be available. However, these measures only stop a possible overdose; they don’t address the problem itself. We need sufficient recovery programs—fully funded.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
8.Maine prides itself on local control of schools. Unfortunately, this often has a negative effect on educational inequality, as districts with a lower tax base can’t fund the same quality programs as the richer districts. I would like to look at other ways of funding schools, rather than relying so heavily on property taxes. The legislature has fully funded the state’s share at 55% (as approved by the voters years ago), and we have set up a protected fund to continue this responsibility. Right now we need to deal with the effect of Covid and how some students without sufficient support have fallen behind. The State needs to make funds available to pay mentors and teachers to give extra attention to them.
Travel to Maine has rebounded strongly, but this tourism season was hampered by massive workforce shortages. What can the Legislature do to help grow this crucial economic sector?
9.Before Covid we allowed more foreign and out-of-state workers to help with our tourist businesses. That was only a stopgap, although we should continue it as the needs of our tourist sector dictate. But if we want to help more Mainers to work in this sector, we need workforce incentives. The workers need a living wage, child-care support, and help with housing so they can be close to their work.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
10. When I was a captain in the Merchant Marine, I moved from commercial work to running research vessels for the National Science Foundation. I worked with climatologists all over the world. I witnessed firsthand the evidence of climate change, so I’m very aware of the associated problems we face. I also worked as a logger in my twenties, and I know how hard it is to make a living doing that work. I’ve also worked as a teacher of students with behavioral issues, as a school-board chair, and as a night counselor at a drug-rehab center. These jobs gave me insight into the problems faced by schools and recovery programs, and with this perspective I try to take a broad view of the problems and issues facing our state.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
While inflation is affecting everyone, it is certainly hitting senior and low income Mainers the hardest. I’m pursuing two avenues to help reduce costs. First, a local organization which distributes heating assistance money has contacted me about ways to make accessing this money easier for families in my county. I plan to put forth measures to streamline the process statewide and cut through some of the bureaucracy so folks can stay warm. Second, making sure our older housing stock is weatherized is key toward saving heating dollars and staying more comfortable. We passed legislation last session funding weatherization efforts and I am working with my local Habitat for Humanity to get a program up and running for Knox County that could be replicated in other parts of the state.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
The vast majority of Mainers favor the full range of reproductive rights and I support them too. But folks can’t get the care they need if rural hospitals close and if we do not have providers moving to Maine. So we need to keep access to healthcare available by supporting hospitals and emergency responder services.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
As a Realtor, I see this problem every day in my community. I want to ensure that first-time homebuyers — our young people who want to stay in our state or are moving back here — can purchase a home in this hyper-competitive market. Out of state investment companies are purchasing homes at breakneck speed, and their acquisitions are happening at the expense of our young people. I will work with the Maine Association of Realtors to champion ways to continue to boost first time home ownership in our state so that our young people have a fighting chance to find a home.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Expand ranked choice voting to all races in Maine.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
The opioid crisis continues to be a scourge, and while we have passed some legislation that will help (such as expanding the Good Samaritan law) much more needs to be done. I want to ensure that the funds from the Attorney General’s settlements with Big Pharma are going toward treatment of those suffering substance abuse disorder so we can fight this crisis and save more lives.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Yes, this is an issue that is not going to go away anytime soon and will wreak havoc on this generation of Mainers, and by extension our whole state, for the foreseeable future. I have an idea to bridge this gap that I will be exploring this month with educators in my community and then introducing as a bill.
Travel to Maine has rebounded strongly, but this tourism season was hampered by massive workforce shortages. What can the Legislature do to help grow this crucial economic sector?
Having owned several tourism businesses myself over the years, I know how exhausted and demoralized small business owners are right now after having faced these workforce shortages for many months. We need to continue to attract new young people to our state (and having attainable housing for them is key) and shorten the time before asylum seekers and refugees can work. Many Mainers are at or close to retirement age, and whether we can convince them to keep working remains to be seen but it is worth a try.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
My focus is unique because I deal with new Mainers all the time in my job as a Realtor, and wrote a book about moving here that has been reprinted three times. I understand housing issues inside and out. As a returning legislator, I bring four years of experience to the table and success with bills to get plastic out of our environment, keep children safer in homes with firearms, protect patients’ rights, and ban dangerous chemicals, to name a just a few. I am a mom, a new grandmother, small business owner and environmentalist and care deeply about our state.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
This is a global problem due to the war in the Ukraine, price gouging, and continued supply bottle necks made worse by China and the labor shortage. Maine Democrats did several things last session to insulate families, by continuing the free lunch program in schools for all children. We also beefed up the available funding for heating assistance, increased funding for weatherizing low income people's homes so they require less energy use to stay warm. We passed the Senior Property Tax Relief bill and increased the amount of the Homestead exemption. I will continue to support heating and food subsidies. But I also support increasing the minimum wage to equal a living wage.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I would make sure that providers are protected and any woman coming to Maine for an abortion are protected from any request for medical records, surveillance of their emails, texts etc. requested by states looking to criminalize providers who provide abortions and women who choose abortions. Republican colleagues in the State House last session introduced 6 bills to limit abortion rights of women. All were defeated by Democrats. With Republican Senator Lindsey Graham proposing a severe federal abortion restriction bill, now is the time to vote across the ballot for those who will allow women and their doctors to decide when and if to have an abortion.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
This is a nationwide problem. Like many states, Maine stopped adding to the affordable housing supply, we fell from 1100 new affordable apartment being build a year in the 70's and 80's to 300 per year over the last 10 years. Many older Maine homeowners would like to downsize, but no smaller homes are available in their communities. I actively supported LD2003, I will be seeking funding for Maine Housing to provide programs that will help property owners build ADU's for long term rentals. I will work to ensure that the focus of federal and state funds that went to Maine Housing in the last session are focused on building additional housing. The legislature's Commission on Housing is also looking at the role short terms rentals are playing in removing housing from the market.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Most of our voting process is overseen by both parties. This only remaining risk that I see, is when a voter returns an absentee ballot to the town or city clerk. The ballot includes party affiliation on the outside envelope. I would like to see a locked box in the town/city office that the voter places their ballot in directly after it has been checked by the City Clerk and it is sealed until both parties are present for the counting.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
The State of Maine's Attorney General successfully sued Big Pharma, including the Sackler family for pouring opiates into this states, with false claims on their addicting nature. The settlement funds we will now receive yearly, must go exclusively to helping Maine people seeking substance abuse treatment. We must continue to find and prosecute traffickers and we must protect our children from early childhood trauma and abuse as that correlates highly with future substance abuse issues.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Students who have fallen behind need to be identified and given additional support such as after school tutoring, summer programing. Maine needs to continue to ensure that all Mainers have access to the internet and technology so that learning can take place no matter what happens in the future. Maine, thanks to Governor Mill's proposal is offering free Community College for the kids who graduated during the pandemic. This helps them get back into learning, with support and back into planning for their future work life.
Travel to Maine has rebounded strongly, but this tourism season was hampered by massive workforce shortages. What can the Legislature do to help grow this crucial economic sector?
Many older Mainers retired during the Covid pandemic to avoid exposure, most are not returning to the labor force and because Maine is the oldest state in the nation, we will continue to lose another 75,000 people due to retirement this decade. We have lost many women from the workforce due to lack of available, affordable childcare. One of the reasons seasonal jobs have been so effected, is that young people have been able to move up into full time, better paying jobs due to the Baby Boom retirement. We need to attract and keep young people, but Maine has a history of low wages and high housing costs, so those must change if we hope to resolve our labor shortage.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I am a nurse, a former healthcare policy analyst, I was a city councilor for 6 years, I have a Master's degree in Climate Change/Green Design. I bring deep and broad experience. I am passionate about housing, making sure that elders can stay in the community and young people can return here and move here to make a life. Improving Maine's ability to provide excellent, affordable and accessible daycare is critical to returning mothers to the workforce, confident their children are safe and well cared for and because it is a great way to help enrich children and prepare them successfully for school and their futures.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Inflation is a national and global issue and not something Maine can easily solve on its own. To help our residents cope with the high costs of energy, we need to make weatherization and heating assistance programs more readily available. We also need to make sure all residents know about existing programs that can assist them, like the Property Tax Fairness Credit, the Senior Property Tax Relief program and the Homestead Exemption.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Easier
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
I support legislation that would make Maine a safe harbor state, protecting doctors and patients from overreach from other states seeking to impose bounties and restrictions on those seeking or performing abortions in Maine.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
The State of Maine has set aside millions of dollars to fund housing across the state. We need to encourage local projects that provide housing for a variety of residents, including seniors, young people just starting out, families with children, and leverage state and federal funding to create housing in our neighborhoods. Much of the recent housing development has occurred in more urban and populated areas. With the amount of funding currently available, we should be supporting local efforts to expand housing options and to keep our towns vibrant.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
I would like to see Maine broaden its vote-by-mail so that all registered voters receive a ballot, reminding them that it’s time to vote, and provide more opportunities for returning ballots outside of regular office hours. And we should expand Ranked Choice Voting to all levels of elections in the state, including for Governor.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
The opioid epidemic was inflicted on Maine and other states by pharmaceutical corporations that prioritized profits over patient health. We must use the proceeds from opioid settlements to help those experiencing substance use disorder by developing, funding and supporting programs to assist them. We should adopt a comprehensive approach involving prevention, treatment and follow-up care, along with counseling, support and general health care services, to help individuals succeed in their recovery. It is important to ensure that those who enter jail or prison with substance use issues have access to continuing treatment during incarceration and after release. We should also create and support programs that keep people from being incarcerated when what they need is recovery assistance.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
This is a chronic issue that faces many school districts across the state. The current school funding formula penalizes school districts that have higher property values but lower incomes. We should review the funding formula with any eye toward including income levels to balance a district’s needs with its ability to pay.
Travel to Maine has rebounded strongly, but this tourism season was hampered by massive workforce shortages. What can the Legislature do to help grow this crucial economic sector?
Mainers have long been known for their work ethic. It is not a lack of interest in working that has created workforce shortages; rather, it is lack of affordable housing and lack of access to transportation that hinder people who want to work. We should focus our attention on increasing the availability of affordable housing and supporting programs like “Don’t Despair Car Repair” to help people keep their cars running. Areas like the Midcoast have few if any public transportation options, and programs that support purchasing affordable vehicles are needed.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
In my first two terms in the Legislature, I focused on issues that are important to my constituents. From increasing fees on clams harvested by depuration companies, so that funds continue to be available to clean up local clam flats; to supporting assessors in their struggles to apply appropriate valuations to commercial real estate, and securing additional funding for Meals on Wheels, I have responded to local concerns with legislation that targets local issues. I will continue to aid our communities by supporting full municipal revenue sharing for local communities and full education funding for local school districts.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
We must continue to take the pressure off of property taxes for the funding of our schools and towns. Prioritizing the full funding of the schools from the state level, means that the towns do not need to push this load back onto home owners. Keeping the municipal revenue sharing fully funded also makes a difference in keeping the pressure off of property taxes. Ensuring the strength and expanding the homestead exemption program, and making sure that the town is reimbursing the towns to the highest degree possible also means the towns have the money they need without taxing the people living in our towns.
Any money that is not taken from the homeowners in the form of taxes means they have more for their other expenses where costs are going up such as fuel oil and food.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Access to appropriate medical care is the right of every individual in the State of Maine. I would support policies that ensure that we do not see government overreach into the medical choices we make as citizens.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
We fundamentally have a lack of supply of affordable housing. By partnering with private home builders, the state needs to make sure that there are good incentives to build that housing. The state would do well to create economic incentives for the builders, and create partnerships with the future occupants so that the housing is built in the places it is needed, and at the price point people can afford. Many municipalities are creating Housing Trusts to help leverage funds from the federal government for the development of affordable housing in their towns. The state should continue to support the development of these sorts of programs that create housing run by local people for local people, and opportunities for local businesses.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Creating the Open Primary system in the last legislature was a huge win for Independent voters as it means that we will now be able to vote in party primaries. While maintaining electoral security, Independent voters may choose one party's primary to vote in without joining a party. With more and more voters growing disillusioned with party politics and choosing to not enroll in a party, this is an opportunity to move our electoral system to the middle. This is a huge win that we should continue to support and protect.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
Right now there is no access to inpatient rehab programs unless you have the money or the private insurance to pay for it. People are dying while in search of help without the money to find the medical care they need. As a state, we cannot think that we are helping people if there is no access to programming outside of incarceration. Creating and funding rehab beds so that there is a place to find help while getting off of drugs must be our priority.
Our kids are dying because they can't find help, we must create a place to help get our kids the support they need.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
My kids go to school in a district next to another with more money, newer buildings, and more programming. There are dividing lines being built in our communities between the communities with money versus those without it, and those lines are being perpetuated by our failure to deliver a consistent education no matter how much money the communities have. We must build programs that deliver additional resources, funded by the state, without increasing the burden on the working rural communities. Undoing generations of unequal funding takes time and long term work, but we must begin to address the issues.
Travel to Maine has rebounded strongly, but this tourism season was hampered by massive workforce shortages. What can the Legislature do to help grow this crucial economic sector?
We continue to need more people to come to Maine. We need workers. Increasing affordable housing, making sure that people know they are welcome, and that Maine is a great place to live, are all important avenues to encourage people to move here. We are doing a great job of creating good paying, secure jobs, and we need to use those jobs to entice people to the state.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
As the House Representative with two of the four prisons in the state in my district, it is crucial that I advocate for the men and women who live and work behind the walls. Continuing to ensure that the professionals who work in the facilities are valued and compensated for the incredible work they do to protect all the people of our state is a first priority for me. Maine's safety and security as a state is tied to having great staff who offer strong programming and educational opportunities for those living in the prisons. This directly leads to reduced recidivism and more people living productive lives in our communities. Ensuring that the fundamental mission of rehabilitation within our Corrections Dept. is supported by great staff running great programs is very important to me.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
A lot of houses in Maine could use weatherizing. My old home needed a lot. There needs to be help with getting this done for houses. An example may be the blown in insulation. I am also aware of the HEAP programs. Residents need to know this and find an easy-to-use process to apply.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
There should be no change in abortion laws.
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
Finding a way to keep courts and politicians out of Woman's right to choose.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
See that we have a policy that addresses the need of first-time ownership of homes that allows young adults the opportunity to be competitive in the housing market.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
I have lived in Maine my entire life and never had an issue with the voting process. I have voted in person, and absentee. I know some elder people that really would like the process of having the automatic absentee ballot process. We should try it.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
People who live in our communities need to have a local resource for those who need help and help for their families. There should be a funding mechanism in place to help them. I know of a case personally, and I believe if there had of been a local resource, this person may be alive now. Very sad situations.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
Very challenging situation. The pandemic has not gone away, and we need to prepare that way. We have to do everything that we can to make sure all students get the same opportunities to succeed in their academia.
Travel to Maine has rebounded strongly, but this tourism season was hampered by massive workforce shortages. What can the Legislature do to help grow this crucial economic sector?
Being the oldest population in the United States, Maine really has an issue. There are a lot of people retiring early. Results have shown, pandemic related, and just an older population. The issue will be how do we attract a younger work force to support the workforce shortages? A lot of things have been tried. I think that communicating in the classrooms about the opportunities people may have in their own towns and areas may help. Let them know and prepare them for some of these opportunities. It would be a win win for the person, and the business.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
Think local politics. Augusta should be treated as local, because it is. Everything is way too political nowadays. Talking with people, this is their biggest issue they have. People are way to hung up on political party things. We need to create a relationship of trust and respect amongst all parties. I have lived in Maine my entire life. It has got nasty. We never were that way and should not be. This is Maine, not Washington, DC... LOCAL. Thank you.
Inflation and high costs are hammering Mainers with cold weather coming. What's the top policy you would champion in Augusta to reduce costs?
Coming from a county (Lincoln) where 10% of dwelling units are mobile homes and 34% of homes were built before 1939, home weatherization and heating efficiency are key areas for our state to invest in to help lower monthly heating costs.
The Supreme Court ended federal abortion-rights protections, although they still exist in Maine. Should the Legislature make abortions easier or harder to get?
Easier
Name one specific abortion policy you would support to best serve your goal.
One legislative policy to help protect safe and legal abortion in Maine is to ensure the legal protections of all medical providers performing abortions in our state, regardless of the patient's state of residence.
A housing affordability crisis has touched all parts of Maine over the past two years. Outline a major policy you would champion to help fix it.
33% of residences in Lincoln county are seasonal; we don't have enough year-round housing and we have to increase the availability of units through local planning, recruiting, and incentives to attract housing development. The state can use a portion of the budget surplus to increase our investments in building homes.
Is Maine's voting system safe and secure?
Yes
Outline the top voting reform that you believe the Legislature should pass.
Maine has led in ranked choice voting and I believe we should expand this voting system to all state elections.
In the first five months of 2022, 53 Mainers per month died of drug overdoses, putting us on track for the deadliest year ever. Outline your top policy priority in fighting the opioid crisis.
As a member of the Opioid Settlement Council, I believe we have to continue to invest in community-based detox and treatment options across our state, ensuring we reach our most rural communities. For those ready to recover, they need options available in their community. Additionally, it is time to pass legislation to decriminalize the possession of substances for personal use. We have tried fighting substance use disorder in the criminal justice system and it's not working. Instead of incarceration, we must provide access to evidence based medical treatment for addiction.
National studies have shown that educational gaps between high-income and low-income students widened during the pandemic. How can the state help students catch up?
We can continue to fully fund education to reduce economic barriers for low-income communities.
Travel to Maine has rebounded strongly, but this tourism season was hampered by massive workforce shortages. What can the Legislature do to help grow this crucial economic sector?
The Legislature can support the development of workforce housing to help alleviate the shortages. People need to be able to secure safe and affordable housing close to employment and for many coastal communities the housing market has pushed them out.
What is a unique focus or priority that you would bring to the Legislature if elected?
I will continue to fight to expand access to mental health services in our state. Covid-19 has resulted in an increase in demand for outpatient and inpatient services and our state has to respond by expanding the physical and financial infrastructure of mental health services across all 16 counties.
- Indicates Incumbent