I’m writing to urge Camden and Rockport primary voters to vote for Josh Gerritsen for State House on Tuesday, June 9. 

Josh is right on the issues. He is ready to develop solutions to our state and regional housing crisis. He is ready to lead the way to a more equitable health care system, in which all citizens’ ability to access affordable care guides the debate. He is devoted to clean energy sources and local control over our power grid. And he recognizes the importance of early childhood development, including universal pre-k, in raising the playing field for all children as they navigate their young lives.

While I support Josh on the issues, it’s just as important to highlight Josh’s personality and leadership style. Josh is a listener and a collaborator. He is thoughtful and well-informed. Josh recognizes that public policy development requires as much humility as it does confidence. He knows that sometimes the most powerful answer a leader can give is “I don’t know … but let’s work together to find out.”

I have served on the Camden-Rockport and Five Town CSD school boards for nearly five years. In that time, I have regularly worked with Josh’s primary opponent, Marcus Mrowka. 

I will not disparage Mr. Mrowka. However, I do support Josh Gerritsen. 

I urge you to join me in casting a vote for Josh Gerritsen on June 9 (or in early voting). Josh is the leader Camden and Rockport deserve for our representative in Augusta.

Rick Thackeray lives in Camden