Young but experienced

Adam Goode and Elsie Flemings, who both won their Democratic primaries on Tuesday, were highlighted in the article “Youth movement emerges in primaries” (BDN, June 12) with the basic assumption that a young age means inexperience. The article suggests voters were given a choice between young, inexperienced candidates or older, more experienced politicians. This assumption is wrong.

Goode and Flemings have experience in Augusta, and I know because I have seen them both in action in the halls of the State House. They have experience in policymaking. They know legislative procedure. They know how a bill becomes a law. They know because they have done it before, and they will be ready on day one. No need for the tour for these new legislators, should they win their November elections, because they know their way around the capitol.

Goode and Flemings won their races because they worked hard, knew how to campaign, and took time to listen to voters about the issues that matter to their communities. They spoke with the people of their districts, and that is what a representative democracy is all about.

It’s not about Barack Obama and it’s not about age. It’s experience in public policy, political organizing know-how, and trust of members of their communities that will carry Elsie and Adam to Augusta for the next legislative session.

Sarah Bigney

Bangor