Whiting man to run for House

David Burns, a Republican from Whiting, announced his candidacy to represent District 32 in the Maine House.

A Maine State Police trooper for 24 years, Burns, now retired, has been on numerous local committees in Washington County, including 19 years on the board of trustees at Washington Academy, his high school alma mater. He also serves on the boards of the Washington County Drug Action Team and the Washington County Development Authority.

Since 2001, he has been the director of the Rapid Response Program, a branch of Catholic Charities of Maine that serves children who have been affected by trauma. He also owns and operates his own small business.

“There are many issues facing Washington County right now [but] there are also many opportunities which we can seize upon if we are proactive in our approach,” Burns said in a statement announcing his candidacy. “Leadership requires a wide perspective and experience, as the solutions are not found in only one issue.”

House District 32 comprises Cutler, Eastport, Lubec, Machias, Machiasport, Roque Bluffs and Whiting, along with Trescott Township in the Unorganized Territory.

The seat is occupied by Ian Emery, R-Cutler, who has not yet indicated whether he will seek re-election. Katherine Cassidy, a Democrat from Machias, announced her candidacy earlier this month.