This week, ahead of the first gubernatorial debate, Maine people from across the state are writing to their local papers in support of Governor Mills’ re-election, citing her leadership during the pandemic and her hard work on their behalf:

Thomas Lohnes, China Village: I am a retired, registered independent voter…I have not always agreed with Gov. Mills. I think that she has done a good job as governor. l strongly believe that she has worked hard for the people of Maine.

Mary Fuller, Portland: Governor Mills consistently looks out for the betterment of all Maine people. She led us through the pandemic with a steady hand, keeping people in Maine safer than in most every other state.

Kathie Leonard, Mechanic Falls: I strongly support the re-election of Janet Mills for governor. Due to her calm, strong leadership, my company, Auburn Manufacturing, was able to employ our 50-person workforce throughout COVID.

Alden Sproul, Bristol: As a father of five Maine residents and grandfather of seven (all of whom are in Maine public schools), I am delighted that Governor Mills administration made testing and vaccinations widely available especially for my grandchildren…I am very pleased that the Mills administration took the Covid threat seriously and has helped make Maine a safer place for my family and me.

Writers also contrasted Mills’ accomplishments with Paul LePage’s failures, and warned of the threats a third LePage term poses to our state:

Dr. Rebecca Chagrasulis, Otisfield: I write to endorse very strongly Gov. Janet Mills for re-election…I encourage readers to remember how former Gov. Paul Lepage opposed the widespread use of naloxone, or Narcan, to reverse opioid overdoses. Gov. Mills has made it a priority of her administration to prevent deaths from overdoses…I shudder to think of the numbers of people saved with Narcan, who would have died without this life-saving drug.

Ronald Paquette, Biddeford: Who can best lead Maine into the future? Do we want Gov. Janet Mills, who signed an executive order expanding Medicaid for nearly 90,000 Mainers to have health care? Do you want former Gov. Paul LePage, who did everything he could to deny people health care?

Jeanette Good, Falmouth: Former Gov. LePage has proclaimed that he is a changed man. I wish it were true. I don’t see the evidence. In contrast, Gov. Janet Mills is honest, kind and inclusive, making me feel proud to be a Mainer.

Terry McCannell, Pittsfield: LePage is simply a bully. Democracy is not best served by finger pointing, name calling, vulgarity, and contempt or threats as characterized by bullies. Maine citizens deserve leadership of the highest character.

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