Bill Beardsley, Republican
My strong advocacy for right to life is framed by articles in the U.S. and Maine Constitutions that prize life, the Republican founding belief that one group of people never dictate the lives of another group, ethical issues raised by a recent cover story in The Economist magazine entitled, "Gendercide: What happened to 100 million baby girls?," and my personal faith. I believe marriage is between one man and one woman as set forth in Maine law.

Matt Jacobson, Republican
It is simply not possible to describe in any coherent way, the complexities of faith, justice, and the social contract the people have with Government in 100 words. I am an American and I believe in the words our founding fathers wrote: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

Paul LePage, Republican
I believe that all human life is sacred, including our young and unborn children. I believe that government should recognize the importance of parental involvement in our children's education. I also support traditional marriage, along with Maine voters who decided last fall that the definition of marriage should be preserved.

Peter Mills, Republican
Ronald Reagan's famous quote, "The best social program is a job," summarizes my thoughts on social issues. Maine's most important social issues are job loss, rising health care costs, and troubled schools. Throughout my lifetime in Maine I've seen the rise and fall of our manufacturing industries, roads, and schools. Shifting the focus of government spending from the inefficient delivery of human services toward creating modern infrastructure will boost job growth. Building accountability into government services and our school systems will create long-term financial stability. Maine is a small community that can accomplish great things by working together.

Les Otten, Republican
The most important social issue we must solve is lack of jobs. Good paying jobs enable individuals to make choices in their own lives. My priority is to create private sector jobs and ensure prosperity for future generations. This includes welfare reform. We must ensure that people on welfare aren’t punished for getting back to work. We must provide a system that helps Maine residents and discontinues our status as a sanctuary state. I am opposed to gay marriage; in favor of equal rights for civil unions; I am pro-choice but against third term abortions; and I favor parental consent.

Bruce Poliquin, Republican
Government and politics have no place in social issues like abortion and gay marriage. When it comes to deciding an issue of conscience, the people of Maine should have a vote. As Governor, I will do everything in my power to refer such issues to the ballot so that the people of Maine can ultimately make the decision.

Patrick McGowan, Democrat
JFK once said, "A rising tide lifts all boats." Too many of our fellow citizens live in poverty and without access to the essentials of daily life – food, shelter, education, and health care. I hold a deep and unwavering conviction that these problems must be addressed. As Governor, it will be my duty – constitutionally and morally – to address these issues. I will promote social justice, civil rights, and equal opportunity for all. I have a plan to create jobs, improve education, and improve our quality of life.

Elizabeth Mitchell, Democrat
Mainers believe in fairness, generosity, and opportunity. Government should subscribe to these values. Ensuring that our children have access to a good education from infancy through school graduation and that they have adequate food and shelter is a fundamental social value. The state budget must reflect that value. Taking care of our neighbors when they are in need is another important Maine value. Respecting the rights of individuals is fundamental. That's why I proudly stood up for marriage equality and will do so again. That's why I have always supported a woman’s right to choose as well as other rights affecting women. I support our Human Rights Commission and its efforts to prevent discrimination of disabled, aged, and minorities.

Steven Rowe, Democrat - No answer
Rosa Scarcelli, Democrat - No answer

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Restoring Maine's Foundation by Bob Emrich - There is a lot of talk these days about the combination of morality, religion and government. Some would have us believe that this is a recent development. It seems to me that we should back up about 200 years to get an “American perspective”. That should enable us to step outside of current trends and political maneuverings. The great majority of historians believe that Washington was very concerned about the precedents being established for the presidency and indeed for the federal government.

Many of his assessments and recommendations are summarized in his farewell address. I quote one part of that here: “Of all the habits that lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports. read more>>