As a State Senator Peter gets many emails related to his legislative work. Peter’s Inbox is an ongoing series where we highlight some of those emails preserving the anonymity of the author. You can write to Peter directly at peter@millsformaine.com.

I am a concerned citizen and tax payer here in Maine and we cannot afford any more debt. Please help this state become fiscally responsible. That is your job!

Peter’s Response

Hi [name removed],

No one presently in public service has done more to restrain public debt than I have.

In the 1990’s, I fought relentlessly against Democrats’ efforts to expand the Government Facilities Authority and other mechanisms used to borrow money without public approval.

In 2003, I stopped the governor from selling off $25M in annual wholesale liquor revenue for only $125M.

In 2005, I launched “Don’t Mortgage ME” to stop $447M in unauthorized borrowing.

In 2008, I was instrumental in stopping the public unions from expanding their pensions at a cost of $300M over 20 years.

Last Wednesday night, I skipped an important out of town meeting in order to remain on the Senate floor until 4:00AM to oppose the Democrats’ $85M bond package. Earlier that day, they had squeaked it through the House on a second vote after several GOP House members switched sides and others went home.

The 15 Senate Republicans held together on Wednesday and we will do what we can to keep the bond package under control on Monday.

Thank you for corresponding. Keep emailing the Democrats.

Sincerely,
Peter Mills