Thank you to the Portland Press Herald Editorial Board for the minimum-wage clarification in “Our View: Augusta shouldn’t stand in the way of Maine minimum-wage hike” (Dec. 26).

It has been a tough several years for the popular vote in Maine. We have a governor elected twice with less than 50 percent of the popular vote, and a president coming to office who lost the national popular vote. It is no wonder some of us may have forgotten Social Studies 101.

In a state that is part of a republic, like the United States, we have the opportunity to change laws and elected officials by voting. It is then the responsibility of our elected officials, the governor included, who work for us – citizens, voters, taxpayers – to execute to implement those changes. It is really a simple process, and quite fundamental to our republic.

It comes as no surprise, however, to learn that Gov. LePage has no interest in enforcing or implementing the will of the Maine voter, or doing the job for which we pay him. This is certainly not the first time, either.

While our governor grapples with Social Studies 101, it would be most encouraging to see the Democrats and like-minded Republicans show some leadership on this! After all, the other measure we voted for was ranked-choice voting, so we may not have to endure leaders in the future so disconnected from the popular vote and from the taxpayers who pay their salary.

Steve Kelley

Kennebunk

Copy the Story Link