Previous Offices Held
2017, 2019, Portland Water District Trustee representing South Portland and Cape Elizabeth; 2024, State Representative, House District 122
Top Three Priorities
1. Affordability: With rising prices and residential property tax increases, many essential workers and longtime residents on fixed incomes in South Portland can’t afford to live here. 2. Environment: The climate crisis presents an imminent threat to South Portland. The city’s aging oil industry infrastructure is an ongoing health concern. 3. Healthcare: Maine must make sure that everyone has prompt access to the medical care they need.
Why are you running?
I’m a firm believer in public service and grateful to my community for everything they’ve given to me and my family for many years. I’m ready to give back by offering my time and energy to confront the many problems we face. Wealthy people and corporations will always have their voices heard in the State House. It’s an honor and a privilege to be a voice for working class and middle-class people in South Portland who can’t always take time off from work to be in Augusta.
What is one way Maine is on the right track? What is one way the state is on the wrong track?
The Maine Climate Council has taken steps toward addressing the climate crisis, but we need to take more aggressive action. The people most affected are often those who are least likely to afford it. We need to increase resilience and cover costs for low-income people. Our state and country are on the wrong track because of a new federal budget that will eliminate food and healthcare assistance for the most vulnerable. This will hurt people and stress our already challenged support systems.
As one of several dozen legislators in your chamber, how would you make a measurable difference for your constituents?
Since first taking office following the passing of Rep. Lois Galgay Reckitt, I have been successful in building relationships with colleagues on both sides of the aisle and have worked hard to earn their respect. Last session, I had bipartisan sponsors for some of the legislation I introduced. One bill even received unanimous support in Legislative Committee and on the House floor. I believe I will continue to be effective in convincing colleagues that my position is worthy of their support.
Surveys show the economy is the top concern of voters. What is a specific proposal addressing Maine voters’ economic anxieties that you’d work to make law?
People in South Portland and many Mainers are experiencing sticker shock when they receive their property tax bills. Enactment of a local option lodging tax could help lower property taxes by giving a revenue boost to municipalities if their residents support it in a local referendum. Visitors to South Portland enjoy the many attractions and services we have to offer. They can afford to pay a few extra dollars on their hotel bill to help us lessen the burden on residential property taxpayers.