Twenty-plus years ago, I ran for the state Senate against John Cleveland. That is how long he’s been hanging around government. It is time for a change and I believe Eric Brakey would represent the Senate district well.

Also, I was distressed to learn Cleveland is misrepresenting his record as it relates to the welfare programs here in Maine. It is really unfortunate that he has chosen to do that, as it relates to getting welfare under control. Some things never change, even with the passage of time.

New and better jobs are needed for the young, underemployed and unemployed. Cleveland and his fellow Democrats had more than 20-plus years to promote jobs ahead of welfare. Unfortunately he and his political party have chosen the expansion of welfare over new and better job opportunities.

I will vote for Eric Brakey. The Maine Senate needs talented young people with new ideas.

John Turner, Auburn