The Oakdale resident and former school board and City Council member once worked for the Maine Democratic Party and has run for a number of public offices.

A love of food and family have been the constants throughout a multifaceted career as a Portland police officer, Cumberland County sheriff, attorney and state lawmaker.

The political newcomer and Portland mayoral hopeful said he opted not to run for City Council or school board because he thinks this approach needs to come from the city's leader.

The current city councilor and mayoral candidate has personal experience with issues the city faces and he wants to give Portlanders the same opportunities he had.

The longest sitting city councilor said he wants more immigrants and people of color to hold power.