Nathan J. Wadsworth

Maine House 70

Social media accounts:
Facebook.com/NathanWadsworthDistrict70

Occupation:
Forestry company manager.

Education:
Bachelors of science, economics, Montana State University.

Community Organizations:
4-H volunteer; Fryeburg Fair volunteer; Maine Legislature.

Personal information (hobbies, etc.):
Spending time with my family and friends, downhill skiing, traveling, hiking.

Family status:
Married with two children.

Years in the Legislature:                                                                                            Four.

Committee assignments (if elected):
Energy, Utilities, and Technology.

Q&A

1) What legislation do you support, if any, to address the state’s opiate crisis?
I have supported legislation for funding of treatment and recovery over the last four years. We can’t fall into the trap of believing that there is one magic bullet piece of legislation.

2) What legislation do you support, if any, to address failures in the state’s child abuse prevention system?
The Legislature just passed four bills (in August) with overwhelming support that deal with many of these child protective issues. We also funded more caseworkers. I always want to protect kids.

3) Should schools continue to push forward with proficiency-based diplomas? Why or why not?
This is a decision that should be made at the local level. I was happy to support legislation that repealed the mandate for proficiency-based diplomas. I’m happy to support local control!

4) Are you in favor of some type of universal health care for Maine residents? Why, or why not?
Universal health care is one of those issues that sounds great until the bill comes due. Until there is a plan to pay for this in a responsible/sustainable way, I don’t support universal health care.

5) Do you support Question 1 (the 3.8% tax to fund the home care program)? Why, or why not?
Question 1 raises taxes on hard-working, middle class families by over $300 million. There are no residency requirements or asset tests. Martha Stewart or Stephen King could qualify. Yikes!

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?                                                                          Washington, D.C., is out of control and everyone knows it. In Augusta, we practice civility and with a new governor and new leadership I predict a more congenial atmosphere. I’m very civil in Augusta.

7) Tell voters something about yourself that they don’t already know, and might surprise them.
My Oxford County roots go back to Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and General Peleg Wadsworth.

Speed Round

Should voters be required to show ID at the polls?                                               Yes.