Warren Edward Richardson

Maine House 70

Social media accounts:
Facebook: Warren Richardson for State Representative

Occupation:
Small businessman.

Education:
Bachelor of arts, English, Rollins College.

Community Organizations:
Fryeburg Conservation Committee; Fryeburg Water District, former trustee; former member, United Way of Oxford County.

Personal information (hobbies, etc.):
I play music (bass, guitar and keyboard), all styles. I love philosophy and I like to walk and hike in the outdoors.

Family status:
Single.

Years in the Legislature:                                                                                      None.

Committee assignments (if elected):
Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, Labor, Commerce, Research and Economic Development, Environment and Natural Resources

Q&A

1) What legislation do you support, if any, to address the state’s opiate crisis?
During my campaign, I have become aware of the lack of beds for long-term care for those suffering from addiction. We must redress this critical gap in Maine’s rural health care system.

2) What legislation do you support, if any, to address failures in the state’s child abuse prevention system?
We can begin by reversing Maine’s DHHS’ unwise decision to end the Community Partnership for Protecting Children. This program worked to identify at-risk families and helped save young lives.

3) Should schools continue to push forward with proficiency-based diplomas? Why or why not?
Proficiency-based diplomas are causing problems for college-bound students and are opposed by many of our districts’ parents. So, I favor returning to a grade-based system.

4) Are you in favor of some type of universal health care for Maine residents? Why, or why not?
I believe that every Mainer must have the right to quality health care. I do not believe that Maine, on its own, has the resources to achieve this. This national problem requires a national solution.

5) Do you support Question 1 (the 3.8% tax to fund the home care program)? Why, or why not?
Despite my doubts about Question 1, home care for our elderly will become increasingly important and necessary in years to come. I will vote yes and then work to fix any problems in the Legislature.

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?                                                                                      Yes. And we are addressing this problem. My opponent and I have pledged to refrain from all negative campaigning. I believe that he and I are setting good examples for other candidates statewide.

7) Tell voters something about yourself that they don’t already know, and might surprise them.
In my business career, I have put more than 70 new products on the market. I have also traveled to and done business in 46 states and nearly every major metropolitan area of the country.

Speed Round

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