There is something to be said about a leader who remains strong in the face of great adversity. Adam Cote, Democratic candidate for governor, is a precise leader whose strength and determination are prevailing attributes. Adam survived a suicide bombing that occurred during his time in the military – and since then, Adam has devoted his life to making his home state of Maine a better place.

He fostered a clean-energy startup and plans to integrate renewable energy and resources into Maine’s economy – to ensure that we cease our exploitation of the environmental resources that make Maine so remarkable.

Adam intends to create a versatile economy, one that values each of its constituents. As the child of two teachers, and the grandchild of two teachers, I understand how important educational funding is in the state of Maine, where teachers are paid less than their counterparts in almost all other states.

Additionally, as a soon-to-be high school graduate, I am passionate about the safety of our schools. Like all Mainers, I fear daily that I, or one of my peers, will be the next victim of gun violence. Adam is determined to bring legislators to the table – from both sides of the political spectrum – to make sure gun laws are safe and fair.

For these reasons, and so many more, I will be voting for Adam Cote in the primary on June 12. I implore other Mainers to do the same.

Grace Roberts

South Portland