I attended a Rental Housing Alliance dinner and listened to the candidates for governor from both parties. The candidates were asked what keeps them up at night. It was Jonathan Bush’s answer to a different question that keeps me up at night. 

The discussion centered on a successful $11 million Maine program providing emergency rent assistance, which keeps families housed without burdening landlords. It was emphasized that the alternative — families on the street — carries a much higher public cost. 

I was unsettled by Mr. Bush’s cavalier response; that he would never consider such a program. There was no pause or apparent consideration for the human reality of these situations.

I expect that the candidates have made mistakes or misjudgments, needing grace from family, co-workers or friends. I ask that they remember those moments before passing such harsh judgments on the very people they wish to govern in Maine.

Nancy Lee
Portland