Previous Offices Held
2022 Maine Senate District 17, Lost. 2022 Lisbon Town Council, Won, three years in office. 2025 Lisbon Town Council, Lost
Top Three Priorities
Maine people are dealing with the impacts of price increases, as the situation is dire for many. Health service facilities are being purchased by out-of-state companies with staff leaving because of changes in management, facilities closing and increased insurance costs. Protecting Maine's environment so that our natural resources can be enjoyed by future generations. Exploring more clean, efficient forms of energy developed in other countries successfully, will have a positive impact.
Why are you running?
Although I didn't regain my Council seat, I felt positive about other possibilities. When I was approached about becoming a Senate candidate, I felt it was the right direction for me. Since I came to Maine, I have been a volunteer and have gained much from those experiences, including how to effectively work with people, honoring differing opinions and ideas, finding common ground and collaborating to find the most effective approach.
What is one way Maine is on the right track? What is one way the state is on the wrong track?
Maine is on the right track dealing with the environment with the climate damage documentation bill and shoreland zoning enforcement funding. Maine is on the wrong track with health care. Considering the sales of facilities to outside corporations, the attempts to cut staff by adding non-critical responsibilities to critical workers, the closing of vital facilities and the rising insurance costs, more must be done to stabilize and improve health care.
As one of several dozen legislators in your chamber, how would you make a measurable difference for your constituents?
The most important action I can take is to listen to my constituents, keeping in touch with what they care about and communicating with them. Another important action is to research the critical issues from a number of different viewpoints, without judging what the ultimate outcome should be. Listening to other legislators and considering their input is vital. Carefully considering the impact of any decision is a must.
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?
I believe it's essential to adjust the tax rate for corporate and high-income tax brackets to positively impact the funding for public services. Maine consistently ranks first for its high concentration of older adults, those 65 or older. This older population is affected strongly by Maine's health care problems. Another group strongly influenced are pregnant women, who have to travel longer distances for delivery. Increasing the upper tax rate will have a positive impact on these concerns.