An op-ed piece by Lori Handrahan (BDN, Nov. 9) makes a good case for having a Maine Office in the nation’s capital. The last I knew, some three-fourths of the states maintain offices in the Hall of the States building here. Having served as director of the Maine governor’s office in Washington from 1978 to 1989, I can attest that such an office can serve as a useful resource of direct information for the governor and his Cabinet as they seek to keep on top of legislation and executive actions affecting the state.

Having been a Washington correspondent for the Bangor Daily News and the Gannett newspapers for many years, I was persuaded by Gov. James Longley that I could perform a public service for my home and state by opening an office which would perform essentially a reporting function for state officials. I worked closely with the congressional delegation and kept them informed of issues that most concerned the governor and his appointees. I also functioned as an “ambassador” for the state, representing the governor at functions and promoting Maine for tourism investment. We put on some wonderful Maine Nights at the National Press Club, among other things.

When Gov. Longley decided not to seek re-election, he urged Gov. Joseph Brennan to retain the office, which he did for eight years. Gov. John McKernan, his successor, asked me to stay on. After 12 years, helping three governors of different political persuasions, I decided to retire. Gov. McKernan retained the office for a brief period thereafter.

I met every week with representatives of the other states with Washington offices and noticed quickly that each operated differently, some with greater emphasis on grantsmanship and lobbying than others. It became clear that a Washington office is whatever a particular governor wants it to be at the time. Such an office works best when it stays non-political and in close communication with the congressional delegation. The two should form a partnership in the best interests of Maine.

Don Larrabee

Bethesda, Md.