I support Maine Sen. Lois Snowe-Mello’s conservative approach to Maine state government, specifically, her backing of the initiative to reform welfare.

The ratio of welfare recipients to working taxpayers is rising rapidly. I am all for giving aid to those who truly need short-term help, but Maine’s generous welfare benefits are out of line with reality and a magnet to the rest of the country.

There needs to be more jobs created, fewer taxes and more emphasis on self-reliance in order for the state to thrive. It is unfair to put an ever-increasing welfare burden on Maine’s hard-working citizens.

I support Sen. Lois Snowe-Mello. She will work with other conservatives and independents to help the governor get welfare under control.

William Kimbrough, Auburn