LEWISTON – Democratic vice presidential nominee John Edwards plans to be in Lewiston on Sunday, the Kerry-Edwards campaign announced Friday. It will be Edwards’ second visit to Maine this month.

As planned, Edwards will appear in a town hall-type event, according to Jesse Derris. “Mainers are ready for a new team to lead Maine in a new direction, and we’re proud to have John Edwards back in Maine Sunday to discuss the Kerry-Edwards plan to do just that,” said Jesse Connolly, Maine State Director for the campaign in Maine.

City Democrats delighted.

“I think it’s great,” said Sen. Peggy Rotundo, D-Lewiston. “I’m particularly pleased that the Kerry-Edwards campaign has recognized the importance of Lewiston in this election. I look forward very much to hearing him speak.” People in the community will want to hear about the issues: health care, jobs, the economy and Iraq, Rotundo said.

Pundits have predicted that the 1st Congressional District is more likely to vote for Kerry-Edwards than the 2nd Congressional District, which includes Lewiston, because voters in northern Maine tend to be more conservative. “Lewiston is critically important to the campaign,” Rotundo said. “They need this base. I’m glad they’re recognizing the importance of this community.”

When asked if she’ll be there Sunday, Rep. Lillian O’Brien answered with a fluttering, “Oh, Yes! I don’t care if I’m in the first row or last row, I’ll be hollering from beginning to end – not to interrupt him – when I hear something I agree with.” She added she’s “so proud” that Edwards is coming to Lewiston, saying he’s a candidate that excites and inspires people.

The country needs Kerry and Edwards to turn things around, O’Brien said, adding that Bush has not funded the No Child Left Behind, which hurts state and local government.

“I’m wearing my pink sweater Sunday,” said the grandmother of 10. Her pink sweater will symbolize the need to fight for women’s issues, including abortion, that is threatened if Bush is re-elected, O’Brien said. “We have to fight to keep what we’ve got. Our daughters and granddaughters don’t understand what they have now for rights.”