It’s difficult to find elected leaders who actually listen to their community and various constituents, whether locally or nationally. As this election season comes to a close, I’ve tried to voice my support for candidates who take feedback, community input, and respect the people around them. Having already voted, I can say that I proudly voted for Vicki Doudera for State Representative and to re-elect Dave Miramant as our state Senator.

Vicki sold my family and I’s first house here in Maine. I was only four at the time, so I don’t remember much. But I recall my parents telling me that they were in a scramble to buy a house, as the lease on the rental we were living in was about to end. But Vicki was there for my family and helped us through that process, as she has helped many other families settle here in the MidCoast.

Over time, my family and I moved from that house to another, before settling in the one we all love now. It’s one like many others around town with a “Vicki” sign in their front yard. Even though I don’t know Vicki very well, I still think she’s the best candidate for the job. Of course, she has extensive experience, but if there’s anything I’ve learned from her so far, it’s that she will listen to you, regardless of who you are, where you come from, or who you’re affiliated with. And that’s something I think lacks in our current state representative.

By 15, I had expressed an interest in local politics. I contacted the chairman of the Knox County Democratic Committee, who gave me the contact information for Sen. Dave Miramant. In March 2016, I visited Dave at the State House. Throughout my day, I sat in on the Senate’s legislative session, went to a transportation committee meeting, and met various legislators from all of our diverse counties.

It was at the State House where I found a true passion for politics, government, and public service. I’m still grateful that Dave was more than happy to let me shadow him that day. Since, I have volunteered on numerous political campaigns and worked with The Woodstove Alliance, a local community activist group.

When I think about what we need, at least in our state, is leaders who listen to us. Leaders who have experience, but equally as important, will represent all of their constituents; not just the ones whom they agree with. These qualities are reflected in Vicki Doudera and Dave Miramant, and I couldn’t have been happier to vote for both of them.

Jackson Chadwick lives in Camden