Age (on Election Day): 53
Party affiliation: Republican
Occupation: Mill worker/student
Community organizations:
Farmington Historical; Legion
Hobbies, activities etc.:
Hunting, fishing, hiking, reading, gardening
Family status: Married to Bernadette; 2 children, Joshua and Rachel
Years in Legislature: 6
Clean Election candidate? No
Committee assignments wanted:
Energy; IF&W; Education
What is the most pressing problem in your district and what do you plan to do about it?
Demographics. We have an aging society that needs reform in terms of health care and taxation to face these modern realities. Our current system is based on demographic models from the early 20th century.
Gov. Paul LePage wants to eliminate the state income tax. Do you support that? If not, why not?
I was a member of the gang of 11 which advocated a tax reform approach similar to this, but not 0 percent. But, yes, a shift away from property taxes.
Are you willing to support raising the fuel tax to fix Maine roads? If not, why not?
No. It would be unwise to raise the gas tax, which would raise the cost of fixing roads. Gas prices being a large amount of the cost. I recommenced taking advantage of lower fuel prices when we can and then doing more infrastructure improvements when costs are lower.
The relationship between the governor and the Legislature has deteriorated over the past six years. What can the Legislature do to improve that relationship?
Having dealt with the governor on many occasion I have always taken a direct approach. I have told him when I thought he was wrong face-to-face, and stood by him when I thought his policies were right. But I do believe much of the change is in his court.
What methods do you support to reduce opiate addiction in Maine?
I recommend shifting priorities away from marijuana prosecutions and enforcement, and moving resources toward stopping heroin. This, coupled with a string treatment approach that supports those who are seeking help.
How are you voting on the referendum questions?
Question 1: Yes
Question 2: No
Question 3: No
Question 4: No
Question 5: No
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