Beyond the confusion

Since the special session in September, I have knocked on hundreds of doors and spoken with many more people in my district. When I ask about Question 2, the forestry referendum, the general response is how confused the issue has become.

Those supporting Question 2C are almost apologetic. The multi-million dollar ad blitz telling Mainers 2C is a “do-nothing” vote has had an impact.

Personally, the claim that a 2C vote is a “throwaway” vote is wrong, insulting to voters, and has only served to further confuse people.

Will there be a crisis if 2C wins on Election Day? No.

It will simply allow consideration of the issue in the next Legislature, convening less than two months after Election Day.

Whether my constituents vote for Question 2A, 2B or 2C, it is my goal to ensure they understand the facts before walking into the voting booths. Voters need truth, not scare tactics.

I’m committed to insisting the Maine Legislature adjust the Forest Practices Act (1989) in January to reflect the legitimate concerns of Maine people.

Were it not for the governor and his 2B “stakeholders” there would be no 2C. Those legislators who, for many reasons, opposed 2B, were criticized repeatedly and publicly for not wanting to “give voters a choice” on the forestry referendum.

Well, voters now have a choice: Question 2A, 2B or 2C.

For 2B supporters to flip-flop and invest millions of dollars in an ad campaign to belittle any of those choices is shameful.

Mainers deserve better. Regardless of whether someone votes 2A, 2B or 2C, there is no such thing as a “do-nothing” or “dangerous” vote. Rep. Richard Campbell R-Holden