Candidates need to listen to Maine’s 50-plus voters

To the Editor; 

A new AARP poll offers an important reminder about who will help shape the outcome of this year’s elections and what issues matter most to Maine voters.

Maine voters age 50 and older consistently vote at high rates and made up nearly 60% of voters in the state’s last election. AARP’s latest survey shows they remain highly motivated to vote this year.  

Just as important, the poll reveals what is driving their decisions. Rising costs are clearly a top concern among older voters, while Social Security, Medicare and health care costs rank among the values most likely to influence how they vote. 

These concerns are understandable. More than half of voters age 50-plus say Social Security is now or will be a major source of income. In the poll, 93% of Maine voters said they are more likely to vote for a candidate who advocates for protecting Social Security from any cuts.

Candidates from every political party would be wise to pay attention. Maine’s 50-plus residents are looking for candidates who can safeguard their retirement security, support the state’s many caregivers, and drive utility costs down.

I urge the candidates to listen to what we have to say.

Paul Armstrong 

AARP Maine Volunteer Advocacy lead 

Palermo