It is with tremendous sadness that I think about whom the state of Maine has elected as governor for the next four years.

I may be politically very different from Gov. LePage, and very disappointed with the election results, but my sadness comes from having this man as a role model for our youth to emulate.

What he says and does in public is not what I want my children or any child to replicate. Saying that the NAACP can “kiss my butt,” that he won’t be afraid to tell President Obama to “go to hell,” that a legislator critical of his budget is “the first one to give it to the people without providing Vaseline.”

Creating tension by calling some people “illegal immigrants” when many are waiting for the U.S. government to respond to their application for resident status. Comparing the Internal Revenue Service to the Gestapo. Stomping out of rooms when he doesn’t get what he wants.

As many places in Maine are implementing anti-bullying programs and teaching our young people the value of respect, the adults have elected a man who uses his power and words to intimidate and dominate others – a sad day for Maine.

Pamela Richards

Portland