Maine House District 113
Golfer vs. Sheriff
I know it’s generally unwise to cross swords with the sheriff, rhetorically or otherwise — especially when said lawman has a law degree. But that doesn’t make Jason Harris any less of a wuss for failing to respond to our Voters’ Guide inquiries.
Harris, reportedly in his late 30s, is a Republican making his first run for office. His opponent is Cumberland County Sheriff Mark Dion, a Democrat leaving a substantial law enforcement career to run for the House seat representing District 113 (North Deering and West Falmouth).
According to the Portland Forecaster, Harris is a partner in a company that owns three country club golf courses. He committed to the race late in the game, but is actively campaigning (at least to the extent of putting campaign signs along the road.)
Dion, 55, served three terms as sheriff. He said there are many political aspects to that job: creating annual budgets and defending them before county officials, lobbying state legislators on correctional issues, working with towns to coordinate services, etc.
Here are Dion’s answers to our Voters’ Guide questions.
— Chris Busby
Would you support allowing a casino to operate in Maine?
Yes.
Should Maine legalize gay marriage?
Yes.
Do you favor any further restrictions on access to abortion?
No.
Would you support the construction and operation of a new nuclear power plant in Maine?
No.
Should we keep the state’s vehicle inspection system as it is, or make inspections more or less frequent/stringent?
“I think every two years would be adequate … I think cars are in better shape than they have been in the past. I’ve seen a lot of folks get pulled over for an inspection sticker for no other reason than they forgot or procrastinated.”
Do you support allowing charter schools to operate in Maine?
Is willing to consider such a proposal.
What was your position on the tax reform plan?
Supported.
Portland Police Chief James Craig is advocating for tougher drug laws. Should Maine’s drug laws be tougher?
No. “I think we need more treatment beds.”
Who are you supporting for governor?
Libby Mitchell.
