Opinion

Maine Senate Republicans elect new leaders

Maine Senate Republicans elected their caucus leaders for the 130th Maine Legislature that convenes for the first time on Dec. 2.

The caucus elected Sen. Jeff Timberlake of Turner as leader and Sen. Matt Pouliot of Augusta as assistant leader. Both are veteran legislators having served in both the House and the Senate.

“We will do everything possible to hold the line on taxes and avoid increasing the state’s $7.6 billion dollar debt, making budget decisions which require state government to live within its means,” Timberlake and Pouliot said in a joint statement. “At the same time, we must act now to reinvigorate our state’s economy and get small businesses back on their feet.”

We are looking forward to having the governor acknowledge the existence of the Legislature and including it in her decision-making. For months now, Gov. Mills has been acting unilaterally, making decisions without legislative input.

Again and again we have heard Maine people tell us they feel they have no voice in an increasingly restrictive government. That needs to change. On Dec. 2, we are ready to hit the ground running and continue working for the people of Maine. It is time to restore balance in Augusta.

Get the Rest of the Story

Thank you for reading your 4 free articles this month. To continue reading, and support local, rural journalism, please subscribe.