On Election Day, I was at Auburn City Hall all day collecting signatures for the referendum to increase the minimum wage in Maine. I shared the table with a group who was collecting signatures for the legalization of marijuana and the welfare reform referendums.
The petitioners’ explanation of the marijuana issue was pretty straightforward, it was the explanation of welfare reform that caused me concern. I listened and watched the entire day and found fault with the explanation of that petition, which was brought forward by Gov. Paul LePage because the Legislature did not pass his bill earlier this year.
That referendum also includes the elimination of the state income tax and includes a sales tax increase.
The signature-gatherer mentioned only a few of the 11 points on the welfare reform part. The part about taxes was not mentioned to more than a dozen or so voters.
The referendum, contrary to what was told to many voters, will be on the ballot “as is,” according to the Secretary of State’s office; it will be an all-or-nothing ballot question.
I am writing because I believe that, as a paid-per-signature petitioner, the person was less than honest with the voters, just to get signatures.
Yes, I am opposed to that referendum, but I am particularly opposed to those who want to deceive the voters.
Anyone who feels deceived should file a complaint with the Secretary of State’s office, Bureau of Corporations, Elections and Commissions.
Joseph Mailey, Auburn
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