Support Sen. Davis’ reelection

To the Editor;

I am writing in support of Sen. Paul Davis, R-Sangerville.

This letter of support for Sen. Davis is easy to write. For a number of years I was the Legislative liaison for the Maine Community College System. During my tenure the college system grew from its roots as the Maine Vocational Technical Institutes to the Maine Technical College System and finally to the community college system that serves Maine people today.

I am proud to say that the seven colleges that comprise the system continue to grow, serving more students every year and in turn, meeting the needs of Maine businesses who need the high skilled graduates. In fact, a number of reports over the years have suggested the technical skills of community college graduates are an important element of any economic development plan for Maine!

All of the growth and development of critical programs for this system required the support and encouragement of people across Maine. Citizens, business leaders, government officials and most importantly, Legislative leaders. Among the leaders who supported and continue to support the development of Maine’s community colleges from both sides of the political aisle is Sen. Paul Davis of Sangerville.

When Paul was the elected leader of his caucus there were a number of critical votes that affected the colleges that needed support. While there were a number of competing issues needing funding we made our case which received wide support but at a critical point it appeared we might be a few votes short without strong support from the Republican caucus in the Senate. After meeting with the leader of that caucus, Sen. Davis, it was clear we had the support we needed and then some! And while there were several days of negotiations after that, we never lost the critical support Sen. Davis had promised and delivered!

In short, Paul is a man of his word. Once you convince him of the need and gain his support he will be with you until the final vote.

I encourage you to support Sen. Davis’s reelection.

Gary Crocker

retired educator

West Gardiner