Full disclosure, I've known Jan Dodge as a neighbor and friend for over a decade. You may have seen Jan this summer, mowing the island on the corner of Waldo Avenue and Vine Street. This is just what Jan does - take a personal interest in Belfast, where she was born and raised, and the greater community at-large. I've seen Jan in action testifying in Augusta on education and senior issues years before she decided to run for office. So, it's easy to recommend Jan for reelection to the position of House District #97.

Jan’s digital newsletters are always packed with pertinent information that the legislature is addressing. And though they were not in session due to covid, Jan was still working. I can attest to this from first-hand experience, as every time I stopped by, Jan was on a conference call about issues from health care to housing.

In these times of the pandemic, with communities unsure of whether to reopen schools or continue with long-distance learning, it is crucial for Maine to have a reliable internet system. As a member of the Education and Cultural Affairs committee, Jan helped pass the bipartisan supplemental budget for broadband that voters approved in July. And she was part of the effort on health care that will help to lower our medical costs.

As a freshman legislator Jan has worked alone, and as a co-sponsor on bipartisan legislation. Impressive.

When Jan ran in 2018, she warned me that though a Democrat, she would be listening to constituents from all party affiliations. She wanted me to understand that she was interested in all sides of an argument, as she weighed what was best for District No. 97.

There are few politicians with the character that Jan possesses. If only they all had the integrity, intelligence and dedication to the job that Jan demonstrates. It is my privilege to recommend Jan Dodge for reelection to House District 97. I can think of no one better for the job.

Mj Crowe Belfast, Maine