Why anyone would want to run for office is beyond me. One day your image is on TV walking backward, the next you’re being followed by a self-described tracker whose only job is to catch you in an embarrassing moment.

From a competitive three-way primary to the current intense general election, Chandler Woodcock has handled himself with nothing but dignity in this race. He has a message that resonates with the voters.

We don’t have to settle for being only one of two states that did not have a growing economy. (And Baldacci’s opponent is the one accused of walking backward?) We don’t have to settle for being the highest per capita taxed state. We don’t have to settle for unaffordable health care. We can and we will do better.

Chandler Woodcock has earned my respect by how he has run his race. He has earned my vote.

Matthew Mower, Lewiston