In 2010, independent candidate Elliott Cutler split the Democratic vote and Maine ended up with a belligerent governor, elected by less than 40 percent of voters. He has consistently embarrassed the state, ignored referendum results and fought against affordable health care.

I am concerned about history repeating itself this year. Remember — Ranked-choice voting is not used in the governor election. Will Terry Hayes, an independent, draw votes away from Democrat Janet Mills so that Maine ends up with a Republican who states he agrees with many Paul LePage policies?

I believe in the role of independent candidates and have voted for them often, but not this time.

I am voting for Janet Mills — a gutsy, proven leader who will support education and expand affordable health care for potentially 70,000 residents. I do not want another governor — elected by a minority — to lead Maine down a backward path.

Nancy Greene, Auburn