Much of the crime in our community stems from issues related to addiction or mental health. Yet our justice system’s basic response to any crime is jail time, not treatment for someone’s underlying problems. As a result, the same people get arrested repeatedly. That is unfair to victims — as well as law enforcement — […]

I will not vote for any candidate who will not pledge to vote for the following three things: First, prohibit the possession or purchase of an AR-15 and any automatic weapon able to rapid fire except by the military, police or other authorized security personnel. Second, prohibit the possession or use of any magazine holding […]

I hope voters join me in supporting Gov. Janet Mills. I’m serving in my eighth year as a state House representative from Lewiston. Gov. Mills leads with compassion, integrity and experience. Her knowledge is extensive. She expanded MaineCare eligibility guidelines to reflect the will of the voters. We worked to include more comprehensive, preventative dental […]

As property taxes rise — and they invariably do — many elderly on fixed incomes are unable to keep up with that burden. It’s sad to think that our elders, a vulnerable population, could potentially lose their homes in a tax sale. It was gratifying to receive a mailer from state Rep. Laurel Libby on […]

I first met Rep. Kristen Cloutier when I served alongside her on the Lewiston City Council, and she was unanimously elected council president. I remember how much respect every council member had for her work ethic, leadership, and commitment to serving Lewiston.  Kristen has taken all of those qualities with her to the State House, […]

Gov. Janet Mills increased municipal revenue sharing to 5% from the 2% grudgingly allowed by former Gov. Paul LePage. In addition, Mills has provided for the first time in 17 years the full 55% of education funding that was promised to municipalities (in sharp contrast to the 49.6% high-point reached by her predecessor). Under the […]

Two and a half years ago, after writing many letters to our elected officials, I talked to a Sen. Susan Collins staffer concerning the coming world calamity — a calamity which would be brought about by “corrupt capitalistic regimes.” I cited a litany of reasons and actions by our and other corrupt governments which would […]

I have voted for Greg Foster in the past, as he stands up for the values I care most about: our constitutional freedoms, less government, faith and the traditional family. After personally meeting him recently, and having a lengthy conversation about where we are as a state and nation,  I am even more confident that […]

Rep. Kristen Cloutier is a lifelong resident of Lewiston. She has worn many hats and is committed to serving all Lewiston residents. Kristen is a good listener and is dedicated, and she has a proven track record. Let’s send Kristen Cloutier back to Augusta on Nov. 8. Rita Lajoie, Lewiston

During the Lewiston City Council’s Sept. 20 meeting, Councilor Scott Harriman asked why we needed a buffer zone. The question was swept under the rug, and the motion continued. Despite the fact city councilors disagreed with the buffer zones, they compromised and approved a 250-foot buffer zone between schools, day cares and homeless shelters. The […]