ICYMI March 27 Meeting | Garrett Martin, Maine Center for Economic Policy

On March 27 we hosted more than 70 attendees either via Zoom or in-person at the Newcastle Fire Station.

Our guest speaker was Garrett Martin, president and CEO of the Maine Center for Economic Policy (MECEP). Watch the video of his presentation below, download the companion slides here, and download a Lincoln County fact sheet here.

In committee business, Chair Keith Mestrich appointed Aimee Christian of Bristol and Geoff Keochakian of Jefferson as members-at-large of the Executive Committee who were accepted by the voting membership present. The current executive committee can be seen here.

In addition to approving the February meeting minutes, we voted in 20 new members. See below for other announcements shared by LCDC leaders, attendees and special guests.

Our next meeting will take place on April 24, 7 p.m. at the Newcastle Fire Station or via Zoom. We will host the Maine Democratic State Committee (DSC) Vice Chair Imke Schessler-Jandreau.

Announcements & Shared Links

Democracy Maine Action Request

Deb from Democracy Maine/League of Women Voters shared an action asking for help submitting public comment regarding the wording of the “Voter ID for Maine” citizen’s initiative referendum question to be added to the November ballot. Democracy Maine does not believe the draft question is thorough enough.

The draft for this proposed legislation currently reads “Do you want to change Maine election laws to require voters to show ID before voting, end ongoing absentee voting for seniors and people with disabilities, ban prepaid postage on absentee ballot return envelopes, prohibit requests for absentee ballots by phone or family members, eliminate two days of absentee voting, and make other changes to our elections?”

• Learn how to submit comment to the Secretary of State, before Friday, April 11, regarding the question wording here.
• What to include in your comment: For the record, mention up front that you see this as a voter suppression referendum and an attack on absentee voting that repeals popular laws supported by Maine people. Write that you agree with a lot of the wording but that the finalized ballot question must represent the full scope of legislation. For example, “other changes” is not enough detail. Try to provide a personal angle. Will you or someone you know be directly disenfranchised or face additional barriers to voting if this legislation passes?
  • See the League’s talking points here for more info.