John A. Wombacher

Democrat

Candidate’s Links:

Office sought: Representative – District 130
Age: 49
Occupation: Business owner
Education: Masters in Fine Arts
Family: Married, 1 Child
Hometown: Bucksport

Political experience:

I am not a politician but I am a thoughtful person who believes in putting people ahead of corporate, party, and special interests.

Why are you running for office?

I am a Bernie Sanders supporter who took up his call for more progressives to run for local and state offices. I believe we can do better and expect more from our elected officials. Working families deserve a legislator who has their back.

• 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?
  • Other.
    I believe in a progressive tax rate. Relying on an increased sales tax would place unnecessary burden on lower income wage earners..Maine loses high-income retirees due to income taxes. Additionally, we lose their intellect and wisdom. They settle elsewhere; get involved, and when they pass, leave assets to causes, organizations, and institutions they value. We need them here. Eliminating the income tax does this.
• Background Checks: Do you support background checks for privately sold firearms in Maine?
  • Yes.
    I stand with the Maine Chiefs of Police Association and support background checks.
• 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 in a living wage for our workers and this increase is overdue. The increased earning will be spent back in our communities.
• Marijuana: Do you support legalization of marijuana for recreational use?
  • Yes.
    Marijuana has fewer negative side effects than alcohol or tobacco and can stimulate the state’s economy. Communities will be able to regulate its sales.
• 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?
  • Adequate funding for treatment of the addiction is required. If treatment isn’t available and affordable the tragedy will continue.

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