Thank you for the excellent coverage of Dr. Nirav Shah’s attributes and accomplishments (“How COVID-19 prepared Nirav Shah for the Maine governor’s race,” March 15). As a physician who has served Mainers since 1989, I would offer a few clarifications.

The two “controversies” referenced in the reporting occurred early in Shah’s career as a public health administrator. Dr. Shah has addressed them openly and demonstrated a willingness to learn and grow — qualities we should expect in strong leadership.

The comments attributed to Bobby Cherry, regarding Dr. Shah’s role during the pandemic, were unfounded and irresponsible to publish without context. The challenges Maine faced were the result of COVID-19 itself — not the actions of one individual working to guide the state through an unprecedented crisis.

Regarding the question of being “from away,” if birthplace were a reliable measure of commitment to Maine, we would not have seen former Gov. Paul LePage claim Florida residency while still in office — avoiding Maine income taxes, while serving the very people who paid his salary.

People do not have to be born here to care deeply about this state. Dr. Shah has demonstrated that commitment through his service and his work on behalf of all Mainers.

In law, medicine and public service, we take an oath to serve everyone. Knowledge and competence are essential; integrity, fairness and respect are required. But the very best leaders also bring empathy, sincerity and humanity to their work. Dr. Shah embodies all of
these qualities.

I hope voters will join me in supporting him in the June 9 Democratic primary.

Dr. Leigh Baker
Yarmouth