ISSUES
Many politicians fill their websites with vague policy positions and platitudes. We need leaders who aren’t afraid to tell you exactly how they will govern. Here is what I would do as Maine’s next Governor, including the bills I would sign or veto to address our state’s most pressing challenges.
Jobs and the Economy
Maine is falling behind our neighboring states. With the 5th highest tax burden in the nation, our cost of living continues to rise while wages stagnate. This hits hardest for those on fixed incomes, especially as inflation grows. The most effective way to help Mainers is to let them keep more of what they earn. Here’s how we rebuild Maine’s economy:
Implement Zero-Based Budgeting
I would sign
LD 1521 to require every state department to justify its budget from scratch each year. This ensures taxpayer dollars are spent efficiently, not wasted on outdated or unnecessary programs.
Phase Out the Income Tax
I would sign
LD 856 to gradually eliminate Maine’s income tax over five years, making us more competitive with states like New Hampshire. This plan includes proportional spending cuts to maintain fiscal responsibility while giving Mainers immediate relief.
Pass Right-to-Work Laws
I would sign
LD 187 to make Maine a right-to-work state, fostering a business-friendly environment. This will attract companies, create jobs, and drive economic growth by giving workers the freedom to choose whether to join a union.
Healthcare
Maine’s healthcare system is crumbling. Doctor’s appointments are often months away, and rural hospitals are closing or struggling to survive. As the oldest state in the nation, we must act now to fix this broken system. Here’s how we rebuild Maine’s healthcare:
Reform Welfare for Sustainability
With over 400,000 Mainers on Medicaid, our system is unsustainable. I support common-sense reforms like limiting assistance to U.S. citizens and requiring work for able-bodied adults. These changes will ensure Medicaid remains available for those who truly need it.
Ensure Timely Payments to Hospitals
I would sign
LD 331 to require the state to reimburse hospitals at least 75% of their as-filed settlement within 90 days. This will provide critical financial stability, especially for rural hospitals.
Repeal Certificate of Need Laws
I would sign
LD 743 to eliminate outdated Certificate of Need requirements, which block healthcare providers from expanding services or building new facilities. By increasing competition, we can lower costs and improve access to care.
The 2nd Amendment
The Second Amendment is a cornerstone of Maine’s values, long upheld in our state. Recently, however, gun control measures have gained traction in the Legislature. Article 1, Section 16 of the Maine Constitution affirms that “every citizen has a right to keep and bear arms, and this right shall never be questioned.” As Governor, I will staunchly defend both the Maine and U.S. Constitutions, opposing any attempts to erode our gun rights.
Immigration
My grandparents immigrated legally through Ellis Island, contributing to the foundation of our state and nation. Migrant and seasonal farmworkers are essential to Maine’s economy. However, as Maine shares hundreds of miles with Canada, we’ve felt the impact of flawed federal immigration policies. As Governor, I will prioritize Mainers by ensuring public safety and supporting legal immigration. That’s why I would veto LD 1971, which blocks local law enforcement from cooperating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Housing & Development
Maine faces a housing crisis driven by high demand and limited supply. With interest rates rising, many homeowners feel trapped. The solution is simple: we must build more housing by cutting red tape and encouraging responsible development. Here’s how we rebuild Maine’s housing:
Balance Development and Environmental Protection
I would veto
LD 497, which overregulates vernal pools and stifles property development. We can protect our environment while allowing landowners to build responsibly.
Audit Housing Grants
Maine spends millions on housing grants with little oversight. I will launch a full review to ensure taxpayer dollars are used effectively to increase affordable housing.
Oppose Tax Hikes on Housing
I would veto
LD 1082, which raises the real estate transfer tax. Taxing housing to fund housing makes no sense and only worsens the crisis.
Protect Property Rights
Property rights are essential for personal freedom and economic growth. I will defend landowners’ rights to develop their property.
Education
Maine’s education system is failing our children. Once a leader in education, we now rank 41st in the nation. We cannot continue to throw money at school districts that are not adequately educating Maine's youth. We must get back to basics by investing in teachers and focusing on reading, writing and arithmetic. Here’s how we rebuild Maine’s schools:
Expand Vocational and Practical Education
I will prioritize trades, personal finance, and home economics to equip students with skills for high-demand careers and everyday life.
Limit Free Community College to Maine Graduates
I would sign
LD 1255 to require out-of-state graduates to stay in Maine for at least two years after receiving free tuition. This ensures our investment benefits Maine’s economy.
Empower Families with Educational Savings Accounts
I would sign
LD 220 to give families control over their children’s education funding. A good education shouldn’t depend on zip code.
Energy
Mainers deserve affordable, reliable energy. We must work hard to keep all energy prices low, as many Mainers use multiple different types of energy to heat our homes. We must reduce costs and secure energy independence without subsidizing out-of-state developers at ratepayers’ expense. Here’s how we rebuild Maine’s energy system:
Repeal Net Energy Billing
I would sign
LD 257 to end solar subsidies that cost ratepayers millions. Renewable energy is important, but it shouldn’t be funded by taxing hardworking Mainers.
Protect Energy Choice
I would sign
LD 556 to prevent towns from banning specific energy sources. No Mainer should fear losing access to their preferred heating method.
Expand Woodbanks
Woodbanks offer firewood and fuel assistance to Mainers who need it most. I would like to develop woodbanks throughout the state and remove any barriers to their growth.
