Our chamber of commerce has 1,305 members – a broad representation of Lewiston-Auburn and surrounding communities. It is probably the most successful and dynamic chamber in the state.

Each year, the chamber publishes “What We Stand For,” a set of common-sense standards of what Maine’s government ought to be doing. These standards include a reasonable tax structure, controls on spending, affordable health insurance, changes in burdensome business regulations, effective education and workforce development, attention to our transportation infrastructure, and recognition of our natural assets.

Under the Democrat-majority Legislatures for the past 30 years, these standards have not been enacted. In my eight years in the Legislature, our local Democrat delegation always gave lip service to the standards, but would vote the opposite way. I don’t think much has changed.

Over the years, several billions have accumulated and remain unpaid to the retired state employees’ and teachers’ pension and health insurance funds. The state now faces at least a $95 million deficit in the budget ending in July. Maine’s welfare system has expanded to include more than 20 percent of the population. Maine is among the leaders in high taxes.

Roll call votes on bills are recorded and available to the public. I hope the public will check on who votes for higher taxes, for inefficient programs, for excessive spending and against affordable health insurance. The public should hold senators and representatives accountable.

Voters should consider carefully which candidate they want to support next November.

Thomas F. Shields, Auburn