Previous Offices Held
While this is my first campaign for public office, I am currently president of the Maine State Building & Construction Trades Council, which is a collection of 20 construction unions representing about 7,000 workers across the state. I was elected to my third full term. I am the secretary-treasurer of Local 327 of the Laborers’ International Union of North America, and was twice elected to that office. I’m also the president of the Southern Maine Labor Council, elected in 2024, representing union members who live and/or work in York, Cumberland and Sagadahoc counties.
Top Three Priorities
We must address the affordability crisis, though if we don't lower costs while at the same time raise wages and increase benefits, we’ll never gain ground. From prohibitive childcare costs to seniors’ inability to age in place, unreachable housing prices to runaway rents and unattainable healthcare; the status quo is unacceptable. But even the most impactful strategies on affordability are meaningless if our environment is at risk and our communities are under siege by the federal government.
Why are you running?
I come from a family of blue collar workers, some with jobs so dangerous it cost them their lives. The powerful tried to steal our dignity then and they’re trying to do the same to my friends and neighbors now. But we’re stronger than those who wish to exploit us. I never settle for anything less than a fair deal for those treated as less than because of their bank account, where they are from, whom they love, how they worship, the challenges they've been through or what their abilities may be.
What is one way Maine is on the right track? What is one way the state is on the wrong track?
One example of how we are doing right by our communities can be highlighted when my then-13 year old daughter told me of the discussions she had at her middle school about what to do if an ICE agent stops her and her friends. An example of how we are failing our communities is the fact that these discussions need to happen in the first place.
As one of several dozen legislators in your chamber, how would you make a measurable difference for your constituents?
I bring what I believe is a brand of representative politics born of personal struggle, professional responsibility and a practical approach, all powered by a long-held view of justice, fairness, equity and equality that is never off-duty. I have never shied away from a challenge and will never approach an issue thinking I have a corner on the market of good ideas. I know when it's time to listen, and when it’s time to use my voice (and use it via a bullhorn when necessary).
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?
Mainers should never have to leave the state to earn a family-sustaining wage. When taxpayer dollars are used to support projects, the workers we rely on to do so must never earn a wage that qualifies them for public assistance. We’re not only paying twice, but we’re doing nothing to build our workforce or strengthen our communities. I will hold the government accountable to enforce current labor laws and mandate fair wage and benefit benchmarks so more of us can benefit from a thriving economy.