Dear Editor:

I would first like to address circulating political ads -- namely those not authorized by any candidate. Candidates have no control or input over ads funded by sources outside our campaigns. Unfortunately, once again there are negative ads about my opponent and myself. As a parent, educator, graduate of our local schools, community member, and current legislator- I want to be clear that I strongly disapprove of this type of politics.

This rhetoric promotes misinformation and leads to divisiveness. It prevents us from working together to solve problems. It’s an ongoing issue in politics, and it’s the reason I decided to run a completely clean and positive campaign from the start.

Our district and our state are facing real challenges. We are recovering from damages to our homes and working waterfronts from last winter’s storms, our lobster industry needs defending, local businesses struggle to find employees, and inflation is hurting everyone. We are battling climate change, a housing crisis, and lack of accessible healthcare. The list goes on. 

As the Senate chair of Marine Resources, my bipartisan committee almost always came to a unanimous decision on the bills before us. We chose to move beyond partisan politics to get to work on actual solutions and positive outcomes. I have spent my career working in teams to find resources for students, and the last two years working across the aisle in Augusta to address issues important to our district. These are complex problems that no one person can solve alone. I have the skills and desire to work with people, even those with whom I don’t always agree, because I want the best for our communities. 

I have faith that District 13 can set aside partisan stereotypes and take the time to consider who candidates really are as individuals–our values, our experience, and our priorities–when making decisions in this election. If you are unsure of my position on any issue, please contact me. After you have the facts, I hope you will allow me to continue to work for all of us by voting to re-elect me on Nov. 5.

Senator Cameron Reny

Bristol