During my years representing Maine’s western mountains in the state Senate, I saw the best of our state — hardworking people, close-knit communities and a way of life worth protecting. I also saw the strain. Families stretched thin, and too many young people — including my own children — leaving to find opportunity. Maine ranks […]

The gubernatorial “chase” gives us many choices. As an unenrolled voter, I will vote in the Democratic primary. That choice has not been easy. I have voted for many Republicans in the past, but those choices this year are too hard-lined for me. The Democratic choices have strengths in both government and leadership. I could […]

I am a proud native of Aroostook County. In Maine local government for over 30 years, I had to be nonpartisan, saw many governors and had conversations with most of them. I know a good governor when I see one.  Now in my retirement from being a city manager and county manager, I am delighted […]

I recently attended the Rental Housing Authority dinner and listened to the candidates for governor from both parties. They were asked what keeps them up at night. It was Jonathan Bush’s answer, to a different question, that has kept me up at night.  The discussion centered on a successful $11 million Maine program providing emergency rent […]

Hannah Pingree is the right choice to be Maine’s next governor. She has shown strong leadership on one of the issues most important to Maine families: making healthcare more affordable and accessible. As a retired family physician and former state senator, I have seen how policy decisions affect patients, families and communities. Maine needs a […]

I have very carefully noticed most problems discussed during the gubernatorial primaries are rooted in one, broad, overall term: social justice (equal access to wealth, health, well-being, privileges and opportunity). I have listened carefully to all gubernatorial candidates, with one standing out as most progressive for social justice: Shenna Bellows.  Bellows often describes positive systemic […]

I met Shenna Bellows in 2014 when she ran a vigorous campaign against Susan Collins. I joined the campaign staff and spent most of 2014 working hard for Bellows. It’s an honor to be able to support her again as a volunteer in 2026. In 2021, Bellows became Maine’s first female secretary of state. She […]