I hope to help Raegan LaRochelle earn your vote for Senate District 15 this November. There are many places to look up her extensive resume and voting record. Instead, I want to write about her character.

Serving in state government can be a difficult job; there are competing interests and values to consider. We have such a range of political opinions in central Maine; there is likely always someone who disagrees with your decisions and is willing to tell you. Many politicians speak only to their base in order to insulate themselves against this critique. Rep. LaRochelle, however, stays true to the deep respect and genuine concern she has for her constituents. She does not shy away from difficult conversations or surround herself with only admirers.

Being able to value someone through disagreement is an increasingly rare quality; we are well served by electing leaders who possess it. I hope my neighbors in Augusta, China, Vassalboro, Sidney, Belgrade, and Mount Vernon join me in sending Raegan to the Senate — we could use 10 more of her!

Stephanie Sienkiewicz

at-large city councilor

Augusta