This is not your typical plug for a local candidate. I believe there is more to be learned here than simply which candidate would be the best choice for our state legislature. National politicians could learn a thing or two from one of our local candidates about connecting with people and getting back to the true reason they have a job in the first place.
Last night Mike Beaulieu knocked on our door for a visit. Not because we are important or special, but rather because his campaign, each time it rolls around, consists of him going door to door to meet and speak with ALL of his constituents in Maine House District 68. Yes, there are actually politicians who make a point of meeting and speaking with their constituents!
My family first met Mike in 2006 when he came around the neighborhood during his first campaign. We were having coffee on the veranda (i.e. the driveway) when he walked up and introduced himself. 2006 was a time of heightened partisanship (we now know that it was only the beginning of such a time.) In typical partisan fashion, our first question to him was "Are you a republican or a democrat?" Answer...a republican.
We found Mike to be one of the calmest and bravest republicans we have ever met, to sit there and be able to discuss issues with us. After researching both candidates running for the seat that year, we realized that Mike had given us a gift. The ability to live our belief of voting for the best candidate no matter what their party...and vote for a republican for the first time in our lives.
National politicians could learn a thing or two from Mike Beaulieu! He actually remembers the people he meets. When he comes around again, he sincerely greets you and your family as if you were old friends and remembers your last conversation. During the year, we get frequent updates from him. He sends out an email newsletter that actually includes useful information about issues in our state. He also sends out a questionnaire that includes information on each of the bills before the legislature and asks for our comments. And yes, he even responds back once you have turned it in to him.
The most important lesson that national politicians can learn from Mike is to turn off the party line! When you speak with Mike Beaulieu about issues, you quickly realize that he has researched them and given them a lot of thought. He is knowledgeable about both the pros and cons and most importantly he gives honest answers without the scripted responses we have become so accustomed to hearing from others.
So listen up national politicians! We the people are talking to you. We are tired of your pat answers, rehearsed scripts, and talking points. No matter what your party affiliations is, we actually do want you to approach each issue with logic and reason. We want you to utilize facts instead of talking points, no matter how popular those little sound bites may be. Instead of making promises, you would do well to adopt Mike Beaulieu's list below. Through his actions, he has lived up to each of these. Mike let's his constituents know that they can RELY on him to:
- Apply common sense solutions to issues facing District #68 and our state.
- Seek and respect your views when voting on state issues.
- Ensure that your trust in me will be returned with honest and responsible representation.
- Be informed on every issue and conscious of the impact each could have on you and your family.
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