Growing up, my dad, Ray Thombs, was always my hero — and still is. I loved hearing stories of his first job washing dishes, or the pride he took in painting racing stripes on his 1972 VW Bug.

Despite growing up impoverished, he worked hard and always put family first. When he was just 12, he came home and declared, “I’m going to marry that Tracey someday” — and years later, he did, carrying that commitment through his Air Force service and beyond.

For 37 years, my parents have shared an incredible partnership, grounded in devotion to each other and family. My dad has worked tirelessly, yet always made time for each of us, teaching us how to love deeply, work hard, and find joy even in the hardest times. He truly gives until it hurts, helping others with genuine compassion and integrity.

As I’ve grown, I’ve come to see both my dad’s strength and his humanity, which only makes me respect him more. Life’s challenges, including his deployments and my sister's health struggles, have only deepened his commitment to family and community. Whether supporting families in need or guiding others through leadership development, he selflessly gives his time and wisdom to help others.

Our family stands fully behind him as he seeks to serve Hope, Warren, and Union with the same selfless character and vision he’s brought to everything he does. His vision: see Maine become the most prosperous small-town state in the nation.

I couldn’t be prouder. Vote for Ray Thombs!

Elizabeth Thombs Chang lives in Union