On Oct. 20, the Journal Tribune published an article that raised false concerns about me, the Independent candidate for Biddeford’s District 12. The source, content and timing of the allegations all raise concerns about the allegations and article itself.

Source: Christopher Quint poses as a “friend” and an average citizen, but what the Journal Tribune failed to report is that Mr. Quint is a registered lobbyist in Augusta. With only a few minutes of research, you will find Mr. Quint lobbied for the restaurant industry against the minimum wage increase referendum that the public petitioned for.

You will also find Rep. Martin Grohman was the only Democrat who supported Mr. Quint’s position. Not only did Mr. Quint try to subvert the petition and referendum process, but Martin Grohman joined him in the process.

Content: It is well established that I moved back to my family’s home in Biddeford in July of 2015. It is also well established that I moved into District 12 in early 2016.

Timing: The “evidence” cited was known well in advance of me seeking candidacy. The man raising the concerns is well versed in politics and could have reported concerns to authorities months ago instead of to the press, but instead waited until just before the election.

It is our campaign’s hope that the Journal Tribune retracts the letter or publishes an update that represents all of the facts.

I want nothing more than to discuss policy and programs to move Maine forward. Martin Grohman, however, refuses to have a debate. The more momentum our campaign gets, the more these attacks ratchet up.

Matthew Lauzon

Independent candidate for House District 12