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Economic Opportunity
Building an economy that works for all Mainers, from Portland to Presque Isle. Supporting small businesses, workforce development, and sustainable industries.
Derek's economic plan focuses on cutting red tape for Maine's small businesses, investing in vocational training and apprenticeship programs, and supporting the traditional industries—fishing, forestry, farming, and manufacturing—that built this state. He will work to attract new employers while ensuring existing Maine businesses have the tools they need to grow and hire locally.
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Property Tax Relief
Easing the burden on Maine homeowners and seniors who are being taxed out of their own homes.
Maine's property taxes are among the highest in the nation, forcing longtime residents—especially seniors on fixed incomes—to choose between their homes and other necessities. Derek supports expanding the Homestead Exemption, fully funding revenue sharing to municipalities, and exploring a property tax stabilization program for seniors who wish to age in place.
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Healthcare Access
Ensuring every Mainer can access quality, affordable healthcare regardless of where they live.
Too many rural Mainers travel hours for basic medical care while healthcare costs continue to skyrocket. Derek will fight to keep rural hospitals open, expand telehealth services, address the nursing shortage through loan forgiveness programs, and work across the aisle to bring down prescription drug costs for Maine families.
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Energy Independence
Lowering energy costs while pursuing Maine-made energy solutions that create jobs.
Mainers pay some of the highest electricity rates in the country. Derek supports an all-of-the-above energy strategy that includes expanding offshore wind responsibly, supporting existing hydropower, and incentivizing solar and heat pump adoption. He will hold utility companies accountable and fight for rate relief for residential customers and businesses alike.
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Education & Workforce
Preparing Maine students for careers in the modern economy while respecting local control of schools.
Derek believes education decisions belong closest to families and communities. He supports increased funding for Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, partnerships between schools and Maine employers, and competitive pay to recruit and retain quality teachers. Every Maine student should graduate with a clear pathway to a good-paying career.
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Rural Infrastructure
Investing in roads, bridges, and broadband to connect all of Maine to opportunity.
Maine's rural communities have been left behind for too long. Derek will prioritize fixing crumbling roads and bridges, completing broadband expansion to every corner of the state, and ensuring that rural Mainers have access to the same opportunities as those in southern Maine. A connected Maine is a stronger Maine.