Maine Senate 24
Social media accounts
website: www.browniecarson4maine.com; Facebook: BrownieForMaine; Instagram: Brownie4Maine
Occupation:
Retired executive director, Natural Resources Council of Maine
Education:
USMC, 1967-69; Bowdoin College, 1972; University of Maine Law School, 1977
Community Organizations:
Harpswell Neck Fire and Rescue, volunteer
Personal information (hobbies, etc.):
Hiking, bicycling, sailing, reading history, travel on blue highways in the U.S., old cars
Family status:
Married, two adult children
Years in the Legislature: 2
Committee assignments (if elected):
Insurance and Financial Services
Q&A
1) What legislation do you support, if any, to address the state’s opiate crisis?
Expand Medicaid; widen access to treatment. Strengthen youth prevention with tobacco settlement funds. Provide contraception services for at-risk women. Treat non-violent addicts, don’t jail them.
2) What legislation do you support, if any, to address failures in the state’s child abuse prevention system?
Make public health nursing services available to all newborns and families. Support kids and families with good nutrition, quality childcare and early education, and job/skills training for parents.
3) Should schools continue to push forward with proficiency-based diplomas? Why or why not?
Optional for communites/school districts. May work for some schools and students, with proper guidance/training, and teachers/resources. Won’t work for all students, and should not be forced.
4) Are you in favor of some type of universal health care for Maine residents? Why, or why not?
Yes. Health care is a human right. Adults will be healthier and more productive. Children will learn more when healthy—school based health clinics, yes! Families won’t go broke from medical bills.
5) Do you support Question 1 (the 3.8% tax to fund the home care program)? Why, or why not?
No. We need comprehensive health insurance coverage, including home care for elderly and disabled. But, we also need to build the structure on a strong, well-designed foundation, with diverse input.
6) Are you frustrated by the political sniping, exaggeration and even lies between the parties and their supporters that have threatened progress usually reached through respect and reasoned compromise? If so, what will you personally do to make the situation better?Yes. Will work on important issues—environment, education, health care, and build alliances to make progress. Will not make personal attacks, and will seek opportunities to engage constructively.
7) Tell voters something about yourself that they don’t already know, and might surprise them.
In May, 1969, I hitch-hiked from Washington, D.C., to Portland. Oregon, nearly 3,000 miles, with 10 rides in 72 hours. No Guiness Book record for cross-country, but my trip may be the fastest ever.
Speed Round
Should voters be required to show ID at the polls? No
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