WATERFORD — Insisting it is “time for significant change in our government,” organic farmer and retired pastor Doretta Colburn is seeking election to a State House seat this fall.
Colburn, a Democrat, is eyeing the 71st District seat held since 2010 by Norway Republican Tom Winsor.
Winsor, who can’t run for re-election because of term limits, defeated Democratic challenger Michael Twitchell in 2016 by a 58-42 margin in a district that encompasses Norway, West Paris, Waterford and Sweden.
So far, Colburn is the only candidate in the race. She plans to run as a Clean Election candidate.
“We need to trust that our elected officials are working for us,” she said in a prepared statement. “Public service means just that: caring for, listening to and acting on behalf of the people we serve. Big money and self-serving interests do not belong in politics.”
Colburn and her husband, Ted, are fourth generation farmers who own Beech Hill Farm. They raise grass-fed bison, laying hens and organic produce. Colburn also bakes artisan breads and bagels.
Colburn taught middle school science before staying home to raise two daughters. She later earned a master’s degree in divinity from Yale University and worked as a congregational minister for two decades, most recently at North Waterford Congregational Church.
An active Rotary Club member, Colburn also serves on a library board and Waterford World’s Fair, where she runs a hands-on program for young children, Little Hands for Agriculture.
The general election is Nov. 6. For more information, see her campaign’s Facebook page.
scollins@sunjournal.com
Doretta Colburn, Democratic candidate for Maine House District 71 (Photo provided)
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