PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • August 16, 2021
Big money has dramatically increased its influence over state politics. Yet there are legislators who have the high ideals and skill to get valuable legislation through committee and both chambers in order to help average Mainers, despite big money lobbyists. Republican Senator Rick Bennett and Democratic Rep. Nicole Grohoski sponsored legislation to block foreign-government-owned corporations from meddling referendum campaigns. Senate President Troy Jackson sought to protect people and our environment from glyphosate, a poison. Rep. Seth Berry sponsored a bill to end corporate monopoly over electric power delivery, placing oversight in the hands of Mainers. These bills, sponsored by dedicated elected officials, all passed in Maine’s House and Senate despite big money lobbyists. All were vetoed. Sen. Chloe Maxmin speaking about environmental legislation this session, said, “There were really big opportunities to move forward…We fell flat.” ~ Sean Faircloth, former state representative, Bangor