As this is an election year I think it timely to remind the citizens of Maine that this is an opportunity to get back to our republic’s roots and bring true representation back to Augusta.

Most of the people I talk to on a daily basis all agree things are not going well economically and politically in this state. We, as citizens, are as much to blame as our government officials. Citizens must hold themselves and their leaders accountable.

One way to do this is at the ballot box. We must vote out those who mandated closures of small businesses, and thus put big corporate interests in front of Maine people’s interests. We must demand transparency and we must get involved in other ways, even if just by talking to our friends and neighbors.

I have not been involved enough politically, but now it’s time to change that. I will support and really get to know candidates who truly care and listen to their constituents rather than corporate interests.

I am not a partisan voter — never have been. But I will say that at this time I find myself more aligned with conservatives.

I will be looking at candidates who uphold the Constitution and listen to the people. I invite other Maine citizens to join me.

Arin Quintel, Livermore Falls