Dear Editor:

As a candidate for House District 89 serving Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Southport, Edgecomb, Westport Island and South Bristol, I have had the privilege of meeting many residents across the district who have taken the time to share their ideas and concerns.

While campaigning door to door, we’ve talked about a lot of issues, but recently residents have focused their concerns on Governor Paul LePage’s appalling behavior toward a member of the legislature. I am hearing a new level of frustration and disbelief that spans across Republicans, Democrats, Greens and Independents. In particular, we talk about the impact this unacceptable behavior has on our children and young people. As a retired pediatrician, I know how important role models are in shaping the behavior of children and young people. How do we expect them to learn respect, civility and understand why it’s important to learn how to work with people who have ideas and beliefs that are different than yours when they are bombarded by news report of disrespectful, crass behavior from our politicians and elected leaders?

Governors are the chief spokesperson for his or her state to the nation - and to the world in this global economy. My independent candidacy is motivated by my belief that for Maine to prosper, we must come together and work across party lines to address the complex issues facing our state. This November Maine people need to elect legislators who can work with the governor when he is proposing sound public policies, but who can also stand up to him when necessary.

Our elected leaders need to work on restoring Maine’s reputation as an independent, can-do, welcoming place where people of diverse backgrounds – and opinions – can work together with mutual respect. We owe that to the next generation.

Wendy Wolf

Boothbay Harbor