Scarcelli knows needs of Mainers

To the editor:

I’m going to vote for Rosa Scarcelli in the Democratic primary for governor.

For my friends and others, I want to explain. I meet Scarcelli for the first time when the South Portland Democratic City Committee began a series of gubernatorial debates in February. Although I had met the other four major Democratic candidates previously (and even supported one in an election), I had never met Rosa. Frankly, before I met her, I figured she was a light weight who got into the race for an ego trip. Boy, was I wrong.

Beginning with her opening statement and through the next three debates, she impressed me with her knowledge and understanding of the needs of Maine, her business experience, her wit and her belief in the principles of the Democratic party. After John Richardson dropped out of the race, I decided I would vote for Rosa. I continue to be impressed by her as I watch the television debates and read newspaper articles about the gubernatorial campaign. 

The other three Democratic candidates for governor have held elected and appointed government offices most of their adult lives. But therein lies the problem, because, at this point in history, we do not need “same old, same old” leadership. If this state is going to turn around quick, we need new, dynamic leadership that is not tied to Statehouse special interests. We need fresh ideas and (I say this as a “senior citizen”) we need younger leaders guiding this state. 

Rosa Scarcelli, despite her relative youth, has the insight, courage and drive to lead this state. Let’s thank our current leadership for their long service and then, in this election, move on to a new generation of leaders. These are the reasons I am telling my friends to vote for Rosa Scarcelli.

Dan Mooers

South Portland

Rowe is ‘person for the job’

To the editor:

On June 8, voters will select a Republican and Democratic candidate to run for governor of Maine.  G. Steven Rowe is the person for the job. 

Steve’s record of accomplishments, his reputation for honesty and integrity and willingness to hear all viewpoints is beyond comparison. Being a true consensus builder, his leadership skills exemplify the motto of “there is no I in team.” 

Never waivering on his position on issues, he has held firm to his values and beliefs throughout the 15 years I have known him, never swayed by the political climate of the moment. Access to excellent education, equality for all at all times, affordable health care and early childhood intervention are at the core of his platform.   

Invited to his home with 12 of my immigrant and refugee students a few years ago, I watched a man connect with young men and women new to this country and culture. Their accents did not stymie him, but their stories did touch him. He listened with tenderness, sincerity and openness, hearing their challenges and stories. He gave honor and dignity to each one of them and they left his home feeling treasured. 

Voting is not only a right and a privilege of citizenship, it is an obligation. Being able to choose how we are represented is an endowment of democracy. Our duty is to respect that gift by going to vote.

Remember, you do not have to wait. Vote in your town or city hall prior to June 8 or vote at the polls.

Rosemarie De Angelis

South Portland

Mitchell gets communities

To the editor:

As a city councilor and former mayor in South Portland, I am looking for a governor who knows how to get things done in state government and who understands the impacts policies in Augusta have on communities. That’s why I am supporting Libby Mitchell for governor in the June 8 Democratic primary.

Mitchell not only is Senate president, former speaker of the House, and director of the Maine State Housing Authority, she was a selectman in Vassalboro for nine years. Of the candidates in this race, she has a unique understanding of how local government works and the challenges municipal leaders face.

Mitchell has a deep commitment to our K-12 public schools and for higher education. She supports innovative programs such as Jobs for Maine Graduates, and understands we must increase opportunities for higher education, particularly in areas that are essential to growing industries in Maine, such as tourism and energy.

But beyond all else, she does not just have good ideas, she has the ability to make them happen. She brings people together to get the job done. That’s the kind of leadership I like and that’s the kind of governor we need. On June 8, please vote for Elizabeth “Libby” Mitchell.

Jim Hughes

South Portland

Mills is ‘savvy,’ ‘passionate’

To the editor:

In the crowd of seven Republican candidates for governor, Peter Mills stands out as the most savvy, experienced and passionate. He is the only candidate who has both government and business experience.

He has run two small businesses in rural Maine – a law firm and small woodlot. His work as a lawyer focuses on helping businesses thrive and grow. 

He has served in the Legislature for 16 years. He has been on key committees, including tax, labor, judiciary, appropriations, insurance, education and human services. 

He knows the challenges faced by small businesses and he knows the intricacies of state government. He is uniquely prepared to lead the state. He will create a results-oriented state government that helps business and citizens succeed. 

Please join me in voting for Peter Mills in the primary election on June 8. 

Linda Riddell

Cape Elizabeth

Abbott is ‘clear thinking’

To the editor:

We urge Maine Republicans to vote for Steve Abbott in the upcoming June 8 primary election.

Steve is a Maine native and lifelong Republican who understands the needs of Maine businesses and working families.  

He is committed to lowering taxes, bringing jobs to Maine and steering our economy toward prosperity. He recently received the endorsement of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and we believe he has the skill and experience to lead Maine in the right direction. Steve is a practical, level-headed, clear thinking product of Maine. We encourage Maine Republicans to vote for him on June 8.

Jennifer and Michael Duddy

Cape Elizabeth