I disagree with Edgar Allen Beem’s recent column on the primary election and the race for governor (“Primary post-mortem: Trouble ahead”).

Beem says, “the Dems gave Janet Mills ‘a narrow victory.’” Mills had a strong showing throughout the state, especially in all the rural counties. The Dems had a field of seven outstanding candidates running, splitting the vote many ways, yet Mills’ win was decisive. The Republicans had a field of three weak/unknown/polarizing candidates, and Shawn Moody who is running with support from the LePage camp.

Beem goes on to say that the Democrats in Maine “… tend to elect the next man or woman up.” That wasn’t at all how I approached the choice, and I suspect I’m not alone. Mills wasn’t my first choice originally, but the more I learned about how hard Janet has worked for Mainers as attorney general and before that as a legislator, the more I respected her accomplishments on our behalf. I had the pleasure of meeting her in a small-group setting, and came away believing that she wants to be governor to serve. Period. Her vision is for one Maine, united in an effort to move the whole state forward after eight years of economic stagnation, a mostly ignored opioid epidemic, and an unrelenting war on Maine’s most vulnerable.

Experience matters. We need a governor who can hit the ground running, who respects our democracy and understands the important role government plays in ensuring a shared prosperity.

Mary Ann Larson
Portland