Time and again we are heartbroken by the news of mass shootings, even as Lewiston joined the ever-growing list. As we struggle to prevent more deaths and keep our children safe, we turn to our state legislators to support efforts to address mental health needs in Maine. Unfortunately, state Rep. Austin Theriault, candidate for Congress […]
Alex Lear
Staff Writer
Alex Lear is a lifelong Mainer who has spent 25 years in journalism -- the first 20 as a reporter for newspapers in Damariscotta and Falmouth, then as Opinions section editor for the Sun Journal and now a digital producer with the Maine Trust for Local News. His long-running “Learics” column won first place in the Maine Press Association’s 2023 Better Newspaper Contest. He and his wife Lauren are kept young by their 9-year-old daughter Alaina. Send feedback and suggestions to Alex.
Tom Shannon: Rotundo has earned another term in Senate
It is a pleasure to write once more in support of Peggy Rotundo for the Maine Senate. Thorough and effective are two qualities she wears proudly. Peg is a listener, and an accomplished, respected legislator. This is true of her years in the both the state House and Senate. Her work over many years has […]
Cal Thomas: Socialized medicine: The consequences
Sen. Bernie Sanders has frequently proposed “Medicare for all,” a type of National Health Service for the U.S. If it isn’t working here, what makes Sanders and his fellow advocates think it would work in a country with a population far larger than the UK?
Norm Tanguay: Harris says much, has accomplished little
I’m writing about the presidential debate, and what has been going on. Kamala Harris says too many simplistic lines that are supposed to sound good and satisfy people, but they solve absolutely nothing. The proof is the open border, high cost of living, giving billions of dollars to foreign countries hand over fist and not […]
Norm Gellatly: A plea to the media regarding Trump
Bizarre news that is generally true is sought and covered by the media. So be it. Donald Trump concocts bizarre news, but it is generally false. This is ridiculous. This nonsense should be relegated to a distant corner. We’re tired of it. Norm Gellatly, Auburn
Froma Harrop: Crazy talk, crazy people and guns everywhere
Crazy political talk may be activating crazy people bent on violence. And about 99% of the blather is coming from the Trump side.
Ken Morse: Beal would be a voice in Augusta for House District 81
I’m writing in support of Joan Beal in her run to become representative in the Maine House for our District 81. I couldn’t be happier with her experience and dedication to the issues she would work on. Joan has been very active in making our communities strong and healthy. She is truly rooted in community. […]
Mary Hunter: Questioning Trump’s concept of a health care plan
Donald Trump claims to have a “concept of a plan” for health care. However, the Project 2025 document written by his associates provides some detail. It suggests “Remov(ing) barriers to direct primary care … [whereby] doctors contract directly with patients for their care on a subscription basis …” An insurance-avoiding relationship with people’s doctor’s office […]