When Democrats brought former President Bill Clinton to Maine for rallies and fund-raisers, Republicans were outraged that this pristine landscape would be sullied by a person of such questionable character. When Republicans brought current U.S. House Speaker Dennis Hastert to Maine for the same purposes, Democrats had a fit over the “radical right-wing” outsider imposing his views on our fair state. When Green Independents brought former Dead Kennedys lead singer Jello Biafra to stump for their candidates, the only people to complain were the UMaine students who had to listen to him whine for two hours.

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The series of gubernatorial debates certainly has been enlightening for voters and no doubt helps in the decision-making process. Some like the way Democrat John Baldacci has demonstrated his extensive experience in the Legislature and in Congress. Some see in Republican Peter Cianchette a person who will bring common-sense business ideas to the office. Some celebrate Green Independent Jonathan Carter’s long career as an activist. And everybody hopes independent John Michael just makes it to Election Day without blowing a fuse.

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Have you noticed the latest batch of political ads, the ones that don’t describe the candidate’s positions on important issues or explain the candidate’s record, but instead have people who claim to be friends and family of the candidate tell you what a swell person they think the candidate is? Does it bother you that these ads may be the most truthful you’ll see this campaign season, but not by much?

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One of the great things about Maine having a large state Legislature in which all seats are up for grabs at once is that the 186 concurrent races yield

a treasure trove of varied and innovative ideas to move this state ever onward and upward toward a brighter future. A district-by-district survey shows Election 2002 to be no exception. There are candidates who say the biggest issues facing the state are jobs, taxes and health care. There are candidates who say the biggest issues are taxes, health care and jobs. Some districts even have third-party candidates.