Bruce Bickford

Maine House 63

Social media accounts:
Facebook

Occupation:
Retired.

Education:
High school.

Community Organizations:
Community volunteer leader, American Red Cross; board of directors, Auburn Business Association.

Personal information (hobbies, etc.):
Golf, hunting, fishing.

Family status:
Married.

Years in the Legislature: 8

Committee assignments (if elected):
Taxation Committee.

Q&A

1) What legislation do you support, if any, to address the state’s opiate crisis?
Enforcement: We need to give our law enforcement the tools necessary. Treatment: I have a record of supporting treatment. Awareness: There is more we can do to build awareness. I am fully supportive.

2) What legislation do you support, if any, to address failures in the state’s child abuse prevention system?
We recently passed four bills to deal with child protective issues. The best interest of the child is the top priority. We just approved a significant pay increase for caseworkers.

3) Should schools continue to push forward with proficiency-based diplomas? Why or why not?
No. This should not be a mandate. Local districts need to decide. If they like it and it works, they should keep it. Needs to be totally up to the local bodies to decide.

4) Are you in favor of some type of universal health care for Maine residents? Why, or why not?
While I am open minded, I am not a fan. Medical costs are out of control. Universal care sounds good until the bill is due. How do we pay for it? More taxes is not the answer.

5) Do you support Question 1 (the 3.8% tax to fund the home care program)? Why, or why not?
The only power to tax comes from the Legislature. Not the people. Because of these reckless referenda that constantly attack the middle class, Maine is losing citizens (new retirees) by the thousands.

6) Are you frustrated by the political sniping, exaggeration and even lies between the parties and their supporters that have threatened progress usually reached through respect and reasoned compromise? If so, what will you personally do to make the situation better?                                                                                           I have always negotiated in good faith. I am frustrated in the process that has become hyper partisan. I am running to be part of the solution rather than leave and be part of the problem.

7) Tell voters something about yourself that they don’t already know, and might surprise them.
I have dabbled a little in theater. So, yes, I am a thespian. I have performed several times at the L/A Community Little Theatre.

Speed Round

Should voters be required to show ID at the polls?                                                No.