Since I moved to Maine in 1950, there have been 15 governors — from Frederick Payne to Paul LePage — a diverse group of Republicans, Democrats and independents.

Included were old Maine “bluebloods” as well as relative newcomers with Polish, Irish and French Canadian roots. Politically, they represented everything from the left to right and everything else in between.

Despite distinct differences, they mostly governed with grace and honor. But, as great as their differences in beliefs and styles may have been, they had one thing in common — a publicly demonstrated respect for the citizens of Maine. That is, until now, I fear.

Beginning with the campaign season last year and continuing to the present, Gov. Paul LePage’s actions have brought national attention to Maine but, as the Sun Journal commented in its March 31 editorial, not in a positive way.

It’s time to remind the governor that Maine is not a vulgar Jersey Shore and that he no longer is heading up a private corporation.

Whether one voted for him or not, he needs the support of all of us if he/we are to come close to optimizing the potential of this state.

That is most likely to happen in a climate of mutual trust and respect.

At this very moment, I suspect that the media and a fair share of the public are waiting in rather breathless anticipation of the what will come next.

It would be nice for the governor to surprise us.

Richard Hooper, Harrison