Social media accounts: Matt Townsend for Maine State Rep – FB; Electmatttownsend.com
Occupation: Veterinarian
Education: BS – UofMe. DVM – Auburn University
Community Organizations: President-Maine and NE VMA; Board Member Humane Society Waterville Area; PAL Coach; Fairfield Town Council – Chair
Personal information (hobbies, etc.): Enjoy my small farm, being on the water at camp, playing golf, home improvement
Family status: Married, four daughters
Years in the Legislature: None
Committee assignments (if elected): Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry; Environment and Natural Resources; Labor and Housing; Innovation, Development, Economic Advancement and Business
Q&A
1) Define what “success” would look like if you are elected to serve your district.
Success in my district would mean that all residents of the district would be heard and represented instead of having a representative that is being censured and only listens to a certain group of her constituents. PFAS issues addressed fully, property taxes stabilized and full investment in the middle class (education, infrastructure, housing, health) and the support of Maine’s heritage industries (logging, fishing and farming). Finally, guaranteeing the protection of individual freedoms to make medical decisions about your body and your health.
2) Name one issue the Legislature handled last session. Explain why you agree or disagree with the final outcome.
I believe there were a number of successes from the last session, but to generalize, support for the working families of Maine – expanded child care affordability and availability, tax relief ($285 million, projected to increase to $750 million by 2027, new child tax credit of $300, alignment of maximum benefit with Social Security (increased to $30,000), increase of the Property Tax Fairness Credit for Mainers greater than 65 and Property Tax Deferral Program expansion.
OPPONENT: Shelley Rudnicki, R-Fairfield
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