To the editor:
Those of us living in Maine’s most rural communities may often feel far from the decision-making process in both Augusta and Washington. However, this does not have to be the case in practice because each and every one of us has a vote. As the mid-term election on June 12 approaches, in light of the current political climate in our nation and right here in our own state, each vote is critically important.
With this situation in mind, I am volunteering with AARP’s Be The Difference campaign which encourages all of us to get out and vote. Unlike so many other political initiatives, this one is strictly non-partisan. All are welcome which is comfortable for me because my own political opinions are quite strong. The focus of Be The Difference is simple and non-controversial. It is about voter education and getting out the vote, particularly for those of us age 50 and older.
I was interested to learn that although political campaigns sometime overlook our voting bloc, older voters have traditionally been a major force in Maine elections. Older voters care passionately about livable communities, financial security, Medicare, Social Security and caregiving, to name just a few issues. Be The Difference will offer multi-media information to Maine voters as to where candidates stand on these and other issues to help us hold politicians accountable for their positions this November.
Older voters vote in impressive numbers. It is a mistake for any candidate to assume otherwise. Let’s be the difference on June 12.
Gail Maynard
Perham
