Maine state Sen. Eric Brakey has been a breath of fresh air in the Maine Legislature. He is principled, honest and an incredibly hard worker.

In 2014, I cast my vote for him and expected great things, but he has surpassed even my expectations during the past two years.

From welfare reform, to holding government accountable, to ensuring citizens’ freedoms are protected, Sen. Brakey is never shy about standing up for what he believes is right and what his constituents want. He even does so when it means standing alone against everyone else in Augusta.

That is not an easy place for a senator to be, but Sen. Brakey isn’t the typical senator — he is someone who is in government to actually do right by those he represents.

I thank Sen. Brakey for standing up for us. I look forward to casting my vote for him again this November.

Kip Elliott, Auburn