League ME Forum: Candidates Face Home Heating, Economy Questions

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Home-heating and economy concerns may decide state and local elections in November. Voters at a forum held Tuesday evening in Portland questioned candidates for the state House of Representatives and a City Council at large seat.

The Maine League of Young Voters sponsored a debate Tuesday, at which people packed the room.

"It's important for folks to know what candidates that are running to represent them stand for," said Harris Parnell, director of the Maine League of Young Voters. "It's important to make sure your voice is heard and that the people you think are the right people get elected."

For some, the debate marked the first time they have stepped into the political arena, News 8's Will Lewis reported."There are many ways that you can serve your community and this is one way," said Tina Smith, a candidate for the Portland City Council at-large seat.Several of the candidates for Districts 115, 119 and 120 in the state House are running for re-election."This election is about the pocketbook and the lunch pail. All those issues that make Maine what it is are the ones that every two years we finally focus on," said Portland Rep. Herb Adams, D-District 119.All candidates had ways to keep Mainers working: Ideas like making contractors hire apprentices and offering more educational opportunities."They are concerned around energy and keeping warm," Parnell said.Alternative fuel was the answer for most."We need to drill -- I know that's not a pleasant thought -- for natural gas, drill for oil," said Peter Doyle, a candidate for House District 120.But some people left the forum with concerns and questions unanswered."Something they might be forgetting is that many of us that live in Portland are renters. So, it's really about what people who own the property are doing to make those homes fuel efficient for us this winter," said Jill Barkley, of Portland.Those participating in the debate said they felt the forum marked just the beginning of a discussion about the issues. Many candidates said they will plan to walk in the community to talk with voters.