Maine House 51

Social media accounts
Facebook

Occupation:
Firefighter/EMT and lobster boat sternman

Education:
GED; B.A., University of Southern Maine; M.S., Saint Joseph’s College of Maine

Community Organizations:
Captain, Orr’s and Bailey Islands Volunteer Fire Department; charter member, American Legion Post 177; Knights of Columbus Council 1947

Personal information (hobbies, etc.):
I enjoy spending time with family and friends, volunteering in my community, and serving as a mentor to young people.

Family status:
Married, with two adult daughters

Years in the Legislature: None

Committee assignments (if elected):
Marine Resources Committee

Q&A

1) What legislation do you support, if any, to address the state’s opiate crisis?
I support Maine’s E-prescribing program that was enacted last year, but feel that future legislation must better balance treatment and care, prevention and education, and enforcement and interdiction.

2) What legislation do you support, if any, to address failures in the state’s child abuse prevention system?
I support Gov. LePage’s proposals to add 18 positions to DHHS, to raise caseworker pay, and to scrutinize family reunification when appropriate.

3) Should schools continue to push forward with proficiency-based diplomas? Why or why not?
Yes. As a certified Maine teacher, I believe there is a place for outcome-based education. Students should, after earning a diploma, be able to demonstrate a reasonable level of proficiency.

4) Are you in favor of some type of universal health care for Maine residents? Why, or why not?
I am in favor of access to healthcare for Maine’s citizens, but am uncertain if some of the proposed models are economically feasible over the long term. This is an issue I need to research more.

5) Do you support Question 1 (the 3.8% tax to fund the home care program)? Why, or why not?
I do not support Question 1, primarily due to the fact the the Maine House Majority voted to not allow the biggest tax increase in Maine history to undergo public discussion or go to committee.

6) Are you frustrated by the political sniping, exaggeration and even lies between the parties and their supporters that have threatened progress usually reached through respect and reasoned compromise? If so, what will you personally do to make the situation better?

I am frustrated by how common civility has become completely uncommon and will work when elected to foster discourse where dissenting points of view exist.

7) Tell voters something about yourself that they don’t already know, and might surprise them.
I am a veteran of the United States Army, have lived in seven U.S. states and Europe, and feel that Maine is the best place I have ever called home.

Speed Round

Should voters be required to show ID at the polls? Yes

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