While Republican Maine Senate candidate Abden Simmons wants to concentrate on lowering costs for Mainers, Democrat candidate Cameron Reny takes a closer look at climate change and its impact on Maine’s economy and what it means for future generations.
Voters will choose one candidate to represent District 13, which covers Lincoln County, on Election Day, Nov. 8. The seat is currently held by Sen. Chloe Maxmin, D-Nobleboro, who decided not to run for re-election, leaving the seat open.
Here’s what the candidates told the Times Record:
Abden Simmons
Republican candidate for District 13 Abden Simmons. Joe Phelan / Kennebec Journal
Tell voters about yourself.
Get costs down ASAP. Stop policies that raise costs. Protect our fisheries and coastal economy from outside attacks — especially lobster. Fight against energy price hikes, including heating oil and electricity.
What do you hope to accomplish if elected and what is your plan to get there?
I’m focused on growing the economy, getting energy and other costs down, and protecting our coastal industries. I also want to help people have a better future in our area — I think improving public education and getting more kids into the trades are really important. Once elected, I plan to work with anyone from any party to achieve those goals. I’ll work with whoever has the best solution to those problems because teamwork is the key to success. Also, I will absolutely go to the mat to protect jobs in this area. They don’t grow on trees and they’re hard to come by, so I will never back down from protecting them.
Cameron Reny
Democratic candidate Cameron Reny, running for State Senate District 13. Facebook photo
Tell the voters about yourself.
I grew up in a working-class family in Bristol, learning early the challenges faced by people in District 13. As an educator, school counselor, union member, professional association leader, and community advocate, I’ve spent my career advocating for families and working to solve complex problems with many stakeholders. Now raising two children of my own, I feel stronger than ever that it is our responsibility to preserve a sustainable future for all Mainers to thrive.
Why are you running for this seat?
Serving as Senator is a public service. I’m running to give back to the communities I’ve called home, bring regular Mainers back into focus, and fight for District 13 families and futures. I know legislation must protect and work for the betterment of all people and places in Maine. I’ll bring experience in education, communication, leadership, and advocacy to Augusta to enact real change by leading stakeholders to solve problems and improve outcomes for everyone.
What are the biggest challenges or concerns facing your town/district in the coming term?
Protecting the environment is top of mind because it also affects other challenges. Protecting the environment means protecting Maine’s historic industries, tourism, and local economies, as well as our next generations’ futures. It is a necessity and responsibility. Other challenges are the affordable housing crisis and access to affordable healthcare and medications. Both of these are especially significant in the midst of a pandemic, but the challenges and needs will continue if not appropriately addressed.
What are your top priorities if elected?
Climate change is absolutely prioritized because it affects everything: our safety, quality of life, and economy. I’ll prioritize affordable living. Everyone deserves a safe place to lay their head at night and nutritious food to eat. Healthcare is also a priority. It’s a human right and medical debt should never devastate a person’s finances. I know what I see as priorities, but I’m also here to listen and bring other District 13 priorities to Augusta.
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