Mark E. Bryant, Democrat

Mark E. Bryant

Democrat

Candidate’s Links:

Office Sought: Representative – District 24
Age: 60
Occupation: Customer Service
Education: A.A.S Computer Science
Family: Married (39 years), Three Adult Son, Three Granddaughters and a Grandson due this November
Hometown: Windham

Political experience

-Elected to five nonconsecutive terms as a State Legislator
-Served on the Joint Standing Legislative Committees: Inland Fisheries & Wildlife, Judiciary, Legal and Veterans Affairs, State and local Government, Taxation, Transportation.
-Chaired the House Ethics Committee.

Why are you running for office?

I am running for office to be an advocate for all constituents and devote my time to Public service. I believe that we can work together to make positive changes for all people in Windham and the state of Maine. I enjoy the legislative process of helping pass laws that will move Maine forward.

Income Tax: Gov. LePage would like to lower Maine’s income tax rate and eventually eliminate it, by increasing the state’s sales tax and expanding it across a broader range of goods and services. Do you support this proposal?
- No. I believe that broadening the income tax base, even if it is revenue natural, will produce a more stable revenue flow for the State of Maine. It has been studied extensively and many plans have been submitted over the years by Maine Legislators.
  We deserve a tax system that treats everyone fairly and closes the corporate loop holes.
Background Checks: Do you support background checks for privately sold firearms in Maine?
- No. I grew up in Oxford County and have lived in Maine all of my life. Hunting and fishing have been a tradition for many generations in my family. I am concerned about the untended consequences of the language on background checks for privately sold firearms.
Minimum Wage: In light of the ballot question facing voters this fall, do you support raising the state’s minimum wage from $7.50 to $12 an hour by 2020?
- Yes. I believe that all workers deserve a living wage. Raising the minimum wage will help those struggling to afford the bare necessities to survive. A raise in minimum wage will put more money into the economy. Education is the key to improving wages.
Marijuana: Do you support legalization of marijuana for recreational use?
- No. I don’t believe that marijuana for recreational use is a good idea. I support the medical marijuana. I am concerned about impaired driving and broadening our youth’s access to Marijuana.
Addiction/Overdoses: Do you believe the state is doing enough in response to the rise in heroin/opiate addiction and overdoses? If not, what else should be done?
- No.
  I believe that we need to fund more treatment. Many facilities have closed in recent years. The heroin/opiate addiction has increased dramatically. We need a comprehensive approach that funds law enforcement and treatment\prevention equally. We can’t arrest our way out of this crisis.