BREWER — State Sen. Richard Ruhlin is a candidate for re-election to the Maine state Senate in District 6. Ruhlin’s campaign themes are a commitment to Maine’s elderly, protecting children, preserving the environment, and investing in the working people and small businesses of Maine.

Ruhlin, a Democrat, said last year he helped fight for bipartisan long-term care reforms to help the elderly. He also voted for basic health insurance for children, although that measure did not become law.

“I believe that the greatest test of our values is how we treat our children and our elderly,” Ruhlin said. “I am proud of my record on these issues, but believe there is still more to do. I want to go back to the Maine Senate and make sure that our children have a fighting chance.”

Ruhlin has served the last two years on the Joint Standing Committee on Natural Resources, and was recognized by the Maine Audubon Society in 1995. He said there is no reason legislators must choose between the economy and the environment.

Ruhlin supported an increase in minimum wage. “We cannot expect to ask Maine workers to take responsibility for their families if we ourselves do not create opportunities. All Maine families deserve to earn a living wage with basic benefits if they are willing to work hard,” he said.