Three Democratic candidates are running to fill the large shoes left by departing Sen. Justin Alfond in District 27. The first two are politicians; the third is Dr. Chuck Radis.

Chuck may not be a household name for many, but he is in our household.

He was with us after our mother’s death at home and later wrote a moving account of that experience for us. Chuck is a devoted doctor and has been passionately involved in social justice efforts in Portland for decades.

This is Chuck’s first run for office, but he has long been fighting for a more equitable health care system, stronger environmental protections and increased dialogue with new Mainers. A compassionate and thoughtful listener, he is an effective change-maker who is deeply committed to his community.

Chuck is running for all the right reasons, and a win for him would reward us all with a singularly talented and visionary senator.

Leslie Kaynor

Portland