Maine Senate 18: John Patrick

Age (on Election Day): 62

Party affiliation: Democrat

Occupation: Maintenance worker

Community organizations:

Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine; Webb River Valley Sportsman’s Club; Maine Snowmobile Association; Rumford Polar Bears Snowmobile Club; Fraternal Order of Eagles; member, Holy Savior Parish

Hobbies, activities etc.:

Avid gardener, hunter, fisherman, competitive pool player, community volunteer, bowling

Family status: Married

Years in Legislature: 14

Clean Election candidate? Yes

Committee assignments wanted:

Labor, Commerce, Research and Economic Development; Veteran and Legal Affairs

What is the most pressing problem in your district and what do you plan to do about it?

In my rural area of the state I would say jobs are the most important issue followed by health care access and education costs. If re-elected, I will work to find additional sources of capital for new and existing businesses and to look at how we can reduce overly burdensome regulations.

Gov. Paul LePage wants to eliminate the state income tax. Do you support that? If not, why not?

No, I do not support that. I believe that everyone who works hard and plays by the rules should have a fair shot, and pay their fair share. Replacing the income tax with a consumption-based tax would create an unfair burden on folks who are struggling to get by.

Are you willing to support raising the fuel tax to fix Maine roads? If not, why not?

Yes, I am willing to support raising the fuel tax.

The relationship between the governor and the Legislature has deteriorated over the past six years. What can the Legislature do to improve that relationship?

We can do a better job of respecting each other’s differences of opinion and work toward goals for the common good of the state of Maine.

What methods do you support to reduce opiate addiction in Maine?

While I believe that criminals should be punished for selling and distributing opiates, we certainly need to increase the availability of treatment options and access to health care for individuals who end up addicted.

How are you voting on the referendum questions?

Question 1: No
Question 2: Yes
Question 3: No
Question 4: Yes
Question 5: Yes