Dear Friends,

Your support has been truly wonderful. Whether you have hosted a gathering, donated to the campaign, or contributed to Clean Elections on our behalf, I can’t tell you how much I appreciate your help.

We’re hearing Jobs Jobs Jobs from many aspiring politicians. I am greatly concerned that the candidates with no experience in the statehouse simply do not understand the state’s role in job creation. While some may have hired employees in private enterprise these are not necessarily long-term jobs or the types of jobs with benefits that enhance the Maine way of life.

I joined the state legislature when I was 51 years old, after spending 30 years helping small businesses in Maine through my law firm. During my legislature tenure I have fought for bills that would not only improve the business climate in Maine, but also preserve the Maine landscape that we and so many visitors cherish. For example, I sponsored and helped to create a program for dairy farmers to stabilize the price of milk. With this program in place we have been able to preserve our dairy farms and all the businesses that feed off those farms: the milk processors like Oakhurst and Garelick, the grain dealers, the tractor stores. We also pay less for milk by producing it here in Maine.

More recently I developed The Fund of Funds upon suggestion by TechMaine. Maine currently invests in the research and development of good ideas. However, once the prototype is built, once the idea is ready to be manufactured and commercialized, there is no money in Maine to take the next step. So in essence, we produce good ideas that then leave the state when the idea is ready to produce jobs. The Fund of Funds keeps those jobs in Maine by allowing the state to attract and secure venture capital. Though it’s a complex idea, I convinced the Legislature to unanimously pass the bill. The only obstacle in the way of bringing venture capital to Maine is Governor Baldacci. He vetoed the bill.

We need a leader in the Blaine House with specific plans to rebuild our stagnant economy. We deserve ideas that can actually be accomplished from the governor’s office, ones that will create sustainable jobs. I have the vision, determination, and experience to make this happen. Chanting “Jobs, Jobs, Jobs” will not bring them here. Jobs aren’t Beetlejuice, and this is real life — not the movies.

I welcome your thoughts. Please feel free to contact me personally at peter@millsformaine.com, the campaign at team@millsformaine.com, or publicly post your feedback here on our website.

Sincerely,
Peter Mills