I have always considered myself to be politically active; I volunteered on my first campaign when I was just 15. However, I admit that my level of involvement had waned over the past few election cycles. This is mostly due to an increasing “disconnect” between my own philosophies and those espoused by my party’s incumbent or “establishment” candidates.

After this experience, I can tell you that it is great to feel excited

about a candidate again!

A little over a month ago, I was invited to learn about a newcomer named Dean Scontras, who is running for the Maine 1st District Congressional seat, his first campaign for elected office. Since then, I took the opportunity to help a group of local volunteers, whose efforts culminated in bringing Scontras to Windham and Raymond April 28.

That day, he visited many businesses and met with owners and employees alike, to exchange views on a number of current issues; by far, most conversations were about the slowing economy and the rising costs of…everything.

That evening, the volunteers hosted a meeting so Scontras could share his philosophies and listen to the responses and concerns of the audience.

He answered questions and discussed a wide range of issues; covering topics that I won’t attempt to summarize in this letter. Instead, I want to share with readers the most important thing Dean said, which, to paraphrase, was “the hardest thing I have had to do during this campaign is tell people ‘no’.”

In today’s political “gimme” climate, the willingness to be honest and say “no” as a candidate is, for me, the very essence of political leadership and courage. On June 10, I will proudly cast my vote in support of Dean Scontras as the Republican nominee for this year’s 1st District Congressional race.

Steve Harmon

Windham