SWAN’S ISLAND — Jason Joyce, an eighth generation Swan’s Island lobsterman, has announced he is running for District 15 in the Maine House of Representatives. 

House District 15, under the new redistricting plan, includes Deer Isle, Frenchboro, Marshall Island Township, Southwest Harbor, Stonington, Brooklin, Swan's Island, and Tremont in Hancock County, as well as Isle au Haut and Vinalhaven in Knox County.

Joyce, a Republican, has worked for years in multiple fisheries while raising a family on Swan's Island. His desire to protect coastal communities and a deep sense of civic duty to faithfully represent working waterfronts are the driving force for his candidacy, a news release stated. 

“I am passionate about defending our sustainable coastal fisheries and the marine ecosystem for our grandchildren and their children,” he said. “Standing against international offshore windfarm developments as they attempt to industrialize the Gulf of Maine is a big part of that fight. While defending Maine's commercial fishermen is an issue of priority in our district, there are many other issues facing all of our communities that continue to threaten our way of life and traditions.”

Married 33 years to his high school sweetheart, they have four grown children and two grandchildren.

“Joyce looks forward to contributing his time and efforts to participate in the legislature, representing the best interests of the citizens of District 15,” the release stated.