Dear Editor:

I’m writing to support Senator Chris Johnson for re-election. Chris is responsive, well-versed in the challenges facing Maine, and has a clear vision for ways to secure our future success in a number of vital areas. Mostly, though, as I’ve worked with him on a couple of concerns, what shines for me is his genuine integrity, his ethical approach to every issue, and the courage he demonstrates when it comes to controversial issues.

Senator Johnson was a strong, vocal supporter of LD-1270 in 2015. LD-1270, Maine’s version of the Oregon Death with Dignity Act, would have allowed qualified terminally ill patients to receive a life-ending medication to take at a time of their own choosing as death approaches. Five states now have safe end-of-life options laws. Colorado will likely join the ranks after the November elections, since they will be voting on a referendum.

Senator Johnson’s impassioned testimony in the Senate session demonstrated to me his very clear understanding of end-of-life issues and how some diseases simply to not lend themselves well to conventional relief from suffering at the very end.  His thorough understanding of how the policies work to keep patients, families, and physicians safe, protected, and free to participate or not makes it obvious he has spent time and effort to truly understand the facts and the history of how these laws have been effectively working as intended since first enacted in Oregon in 1997.

Senator Johnson regularly demonstrates his love for Maine and its citizens. He listens to what his constituents have to say. He seeks to understand the issues and concerns. He takes the time to educate himself, and he steps up to the plate with a deep sense of responsibility as a public servant. 

Valerie Lovelace

Westport Island