Hope for Maine GOP

To the editor:
    My daughter and I were honored to be delegates for Ron Paul to the Maine State Republican Convention this weekend. For years I have been very active in Maine politics, volunteering for candidates and causes, running for office myself, being a part of the County and State Committee. When I attended the 2008 State Convention I was concerned that most of those there in the 18-30 age group were either interns or volunteers helping elected officials (or those running for office), very few were there as delegates from their towns. I have seen this reflected as many young people have been disillusioned with the whole political process and decided not to be involved.
    If this does not change what does the future hold?
 When we arrived at the Augusta Civic Center very early (6:30 a.m.) Saturday morning, I was amazed to see the change from four years ago! A long line (mostly Ron Paul supporters) representing every facet of Mainers was lined up to go in … professionals in suits, those in jeans and tees, veterans, grandmas and grandpas, young people all over, families.
    Many may think Ron Paul supporters are a “fringe group of extremists” but after spending two days among many Mainers who support Ron Paul I can testify, “that just ‘aint so!” The people I met and spoke with were Americans who are passionately concerned with the direction our state and country are going and want to see us return to our Constitution and the ideals of our Founding Fathers. Yes, this Convention was different than others … more chaotic that’s true but when was the the last time we have really had a choice of candidates at a Maine GOP Convention?
    I am proud of the young people that came out from Aroostook County and spend two very long days seated on metal bleacher seats in the balcony while seemingly endless counting and re-counting went on and say thank you! I hope you see now the importance of “every vote counts” and the need to be involved!
    I hope this new influx of voters brings new life and real change to our party, state and county. If it does than the vision and ideals of Ron Paul will continue on to future generations!
DeAnne Rogan
Houlton