Elsie Flemings, a Democrat in her 20s, and Rick Savage, a Republican in his 60s, are running for the House District 35 seat in the Maine Legislature.

Elsie Flemings has character traits, including listening skills and working well with others, that are praiseworthy. She has been described by some as an environmental activist, also to her credit. However, I’m not sure environmentalism needs another advocate in Augusta. I do not know what issues besides environmentalism and sustainability Elsie considers critical, and whether she has the knowledge and experience to address them. Examples of pressing issues: the concerns and needs of “Main Street,” the working class and the state’s burdensome tax structure.

Rick Savage has an impressive background that contrasts sharply with that of Flemings. He has a broad range of experience in local government, education, boating and fishing and small business. Rick would participate in developing solutions to environmental and sustainability issues. However, his work in the Legislature would likely be more balanced than that of his opponent. Rick is a respected member of his community, as evidenced by his 12-years of service as a selectman and as town moderator.

He is the best candidate for the House District 35 seat, in my opinion. On Nov. 4, it will be my pleasure as a Democrat to vote for Rick Savage.

Dick Church

Southwest Harbor