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In their Own Words

Republicans

Matthew Harrington (R) – Senate District 33

I’m running for re-election because Maine families deserve a strong voice that will fight for affordability, accountability, and public safety. Having spent most of my career in law enforcement, I understand the challenges facing our communities and the importance of leadership grounded in responsibility, and common sense.

I have worked tirelessly on the Energy Committee to push back against policies that drive up electricity costs for Maine families, seniors and small businesses. I have consistently voted against solar subsidy mandates that increase our bills. I have also stood firm against run away state spending and voted against budgets that have increased spending, raised taxes and taken more of your money.

I believe government must be accountable to the people. That’s why I called for an investigation into the allegations of welfare fraud involving Gateway Community Services, and have continued to call for reform and accountability. Taxpayer dollars should be reserved for those who are truly in need. Lastly, I have fought to end soft-on-crime policies and to promote common-sense that keep our streets free of needles and safe from crime.

I’m asking for your support so I can continue fighting for a safer, stronger, and more affordable Maine.

-Senator Matt Harrington

Clinton Wesley Phinney, Jr

Clinton Wesley Phinney, Jr (R) – House District 141

I believe that I am the best candidate for the Maine Legislative District 141 House seat as I have the most diverse background, college education, work experiences, and a lifetime of commitment to Public Service.  I have a proven record of leadership serving in various Criminal Justice Positions in Municipal, County, State and Federal Law Enforcement.  I served two different terms as the constitutionally elected York County Sheriff 1978-1998.  I served 26 years in Social Services at York County Shelter Programs and WABAN working with Homeless Individuals and Families, serving clients with Mental Health, Substance Use Disorder problems, and clients with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities. I was an Adjunct Professor at SMCC teaching Behavioral Health Technology. I serve on the RSU 57 School Board as Chair of the Finance Committee. I served as Governor LePage’s appointed Chair of the Statewide Homeless Council. I serve on the MCOC Board of Directors administering HUD monies coming into Maine. I have helped develop affordable Housing. I helped develop the Drug Strategy for Maine. I lived in Sanford/Springvale for 22 years and Shapleigh Summers all my life, the past 5 years permanently. I understand the diverse issues that affect citizens.

Marc Boisse

Marc Boisse (R) – House District 141

My name is Marc Boisse and I am running for State Representative House District 141: Shapleigh, Newfield, Springvale and parts of Sanford.

My wife and I have lived in Shapleigh for 33 years, where we raised 5 children- now married with their own children. I run a successful business, am an active member of a local church, and have coached boys and girls in both basketball and track and field.

It has become increasingly clear to me that Maine is not governed responsibly and is in need of a course correction. Education: In 2015 Maine was ranked 16th and in 2025 dropped to 41st.

Fiscally: Maine is under investigation for 45.6 million dollars in Medicare fraud. Affordability: Maine has the 5th highest electricity prices in the US, with rates rising 78% since 2015. Protecting girls sports & spaces: Maine allows boys in girls’ sports-and have access to girls’ locker rooms. Maine’s girls are unprotected and marginalized. Seniors: Maine has the oldest population in the country, yet our Governor did not recognize federal deductions of $6,000-

$12,000 for seniors on state income tax returns.

I hope these are concerns we share. Please vote on June 9th in the primary election.

Thanks, & God bless.

Gordon Frohloff (R) – House District 142

The Sanford Springvale News did not receive a statement from Gordon Frohloff.

Eric Small

Eric Small (R) – House District 143

I am running for office because I believe Sanford deserves leadership grounded in common sense, accountability, and real-world experience. After more than two decades in public service, including my time as your police chief, I have seen firsthand the challenges our community is facing.

 Sanford continues to deal with rising concerns around drug use, repeat offenders cycling through the system, and the strain this places on our police, EMS, and local resources. Too often, policies coming out of Augusta have limited the ability of law enforcement to effectively address these issues, reducing accountability and making it harder to intervene before problems escalate.

At the same time, families and seniors are feeling the pressure of high taxes and the growing cost of living. I am committed to supporting law enforcement, restoring the authority needed to keep our community safe, and working to lower taxes so Maine remains affordable for future generations.

My campaign is about practical solutions, not political agendas. I will work to keep our community safe, support working families, and ensure Sanford remains a place where people can afford to live, work, and build their future.

I would be honored to earn your support.

Democrats

Mark Vigliotta

Mark Vigliotta (D) – Senate District 33

I’m running to represent District 33—Sanford-Springvale, Alfred, Waterboro, and Lebanon—because our state needs steady leadership focused on practical solutions for working families.

Over nearly two decades at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, I’ve held nearly every position of trust my colleagues could give me. From Shop Steward to President of IAM District 4 and Local 836 all the way to President of the Maine State Council of Machinists, where I represented over 5,000 workers in shipbuilding, paper manufacturing, commercial fishing, rail transport, and legal services. My career has been defined by advocating for fair pay, safe conditions, and the protections Maine workers deserve.

I’m stepping up now because Maine is becoming increasingly unaffordable. While the cost-of-living rises, wages have not kept pace, straining families and retirees alike. In Augusta, I will be a common-sense voice for lowering the costs of groceries, energy, and housing. Further, I will fight to create high-quality jobs, ensure access to affordable healthcare, and modernize our tax code to be fair for everyone.

To learn more about my vision for our community, please visit markformaine.com. I look forward to earning your vote.

Rebecca Flood Andrews

Rebecca Flood Andrews (D) – House District 141

My name is Rebecca Flood Andrews; I am running to be your State Representative. I am a wife, mother, substitute teacher, small business owner, and advocate. I have lived in Sanford/Springvale for half of my life. As a child, I grew up in poverty, surrounded by substance abuse and with the deck stacked against me. The system failed to protect me. As a young adult I struggled to get by but persevered. I have had to choose between paying the electric bill and buying food. I am a domestic abuse survivor.

I have used the challenges in my life to become strong and advocate for those who need a voice. I know the struggles of people today and I know how to help. I want to take my strengths and bring them to the state level. I want to fight and advocate for my community.

Locally, I have helped eliminate over a million dollars in medical debt. I have held insurance companies accountable and recovered previously denied dollars. I am fighting to keep predatory businesses out of our communities and protect our environment. I want to make a difference. I want to listen, hear, and give my district a voice.

Ayn Hanselmann

Ayn Hanselmann (D) House District 142

I am the fourth generation of my family to raise children in Sanford, and I want our city — and our state — to remain in places where future generations can afford to live, work, and raise families of their own.

I believe Maine should offer quality healthcare, strong childcare options, excellent education, attainable housing, and real economic opportunity for working families. I want our neighborhoods to be safe, welcoming, and connected — places where children know their neighbors, families enjoy parks and trails, and community policing helps keep residents safe.

After eight years serving as a Sanford City Councilor, I understand how decisions made in Augusta directly affect local taxpayers. When the state fails to fully fund education, reduces revenue sharing, or imposes unfunded mandates, the burden falls on local property taxpayers, families, and businesses.

These concerns are why I am running this November to represent District 142 in the Maine House of Representatives.

In addition to serving on the City Council, I have volunteered with York County Community Action, the Sanford Growth Council, the Sanford Backpack Program, Friends of Downtown, and Goodall Library. I am ready to hit the ground running in Augusta and will always put Sanford and District 142 first.

John Henkelman

John Henkelman (D) – House District 143

As your neighbor, I am running for the State House to ensure our community remains a place where families can thrive. My commitment is reflected in my service on the Sanford Recreation Advisory Board and contributions to the Sanford Springvale News regarding our outdoor heritage.

In Augusta, I will apply the data-driven rigor I used as a scientist. We must move beyond “gut feelings” to address the cost of living by focusing on fiscal transparency and expanding childcare access for working families. My campaign is built on the front porch conversations I have with neighbors one at a time, and I hope to see you at your door soon.

As a Maine Guide and Environmental Science educator, I am dedicated to protecting the Maine tradition of open access to lands and waters. By advocating for smart-growth housing and responsible stewardship, we can revitalize our city core while preserving the character of District 143. I ask for your support to bring a fact-based voice to the State House who will speak for our entire district.

At the end of the day, I am a scientist, Maine Guide, but most importantly – your neighbor. 

JohnForMaine.com

ADDITIONAL VOTING INFORMATION:

Maine’s primary election is now a “semi-open” primary: voters who have chosen not to enroll in a party (Democratic, Green Independent, Libertarian, or Republican) can request a Democratic or Republican ballot.

More information is available on the city’s website at Upcoming Election Information.

Also on the local ballot: the school budget validation for the upcoming year. Documents explaining the budget proposal are available online on the city’s website, sanfordmaine.org.

Here are the main ways to vote:

  • In person at Sanford High School on June 9 between 7 am and 8 pm.
  • In person at the City Clerk’s office from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through Thursday. (City offices are closed on Fridays.)

The post In their Own Words appeared first on Sanford Springvale News.

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