Every once in a while, a candidate for public office comes along who gives people a sigh of relief, knowing that person can make a difference. For me, that person is Candy Gleason, and that is why I’m supporting her efforts to become a state representative from Auburn.

Gleason and I have been colleagues at ELHS for more than 25 years. She is smart, energetic and tenacious. As the revered speech and debate teacher, she has been devoted to her students. Now she is retiring, with years of experience to offer to public dialogue.

But the road to Augusta begins with the primary on June 14. With low voter turnout expected, everyone’s vote is imperative. If residents want a candidate who is ready to take on the bully (but with class) and ready to represent them as only a person with deep roots in Auburn can, they should vote for Candy Gleason.

Laurie Maloney, Lewiston