Editor,

It’s been an honor to run for State Senate in the Great Lakes Region. So many of you have e-mailed and called to say thanks, but I could say as much to you. You have allowed me to knock on your doors and listen to your concerns, while at the same time listening to my good intentions. It’s been a pleasure to connect with new friends and old neighbors. Please know that each one of you have left a deep and lasting impression upon me.

My intention for running was to get a common sense message out to folks that when you overtax people, people will produce less; yet, when you cut taxes, society will produce even more than before. There were some legislators in Augusta who just didn’t get it; nevertheless, they’re back for another two years!

Can anyone look at the record of this administration and say, “Well done?” Can anyone compare the state of our economy when Baldacci and those who support him took office with where we are today and say, “Keep up the good work?” This is an administration that has failed to live within its means and believes that high taxes are somehow good for us.

I have an uncomfortable feeling that if our leadership continues to take us down the same path, it will not be in a direction on which we can base our hopes for the future. Maine’s high state and local taxation trend is currently at 13 percent of personal income compared to the rest of the country and a reversal, no matter how the Democratic leadership spins it, won’t be forthcoming unless certain special interests are curtailed.

A long time ago a revolution began with three little words, “We the people.” It was the foundation upon which one of the greatest countries in the world was formed – our United States of America.

The time has come, my friends, to be vigilant of our leadership here at home as well as in our nation’s capitol. A cold war has developed upon our own shores between fellow Americans over economic and moral grounds. We must keep up our guard, but we must also continue to work together to lessen and eliminate tension and mistrust.

It was my great pleasure to run for State Senate. I promise that I will not lay down the torch giving in to liberal demands upon our freedoms. Together, we can and we must hold our elected officials accountable at every turn. Together, we can change the way our government does business. Will you join me?

Lani Kelly

Windham