WHO IS RUNNING?
CANDIDATE INTERVIEWS
HANCOCK COUNTY—We know we’re a bit late with this one, but we were hoping that all of the candidates would respond to our questions and were giving them time to do so.
Many thanks to the candidates who did respond. If any respond after this story’s publication, we’ll update it with a note. As a reminder, this (and all of our past articles) are at both here and here.
We’ve listed the candidates by race alphabetically, starting with the Hancock County Commissioner’s race and working up the levels of government. Their answers were only edited for punctuation, and then only minimally. We asked for photos and included the ones that they have sent in.
The election is Nov. 5, 2024. The Maine portal for election information is here.
FORUMS BY LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS
Some Hancock County candidates for Maine House and Maine Senate, along with candidates for County Commissioner, will meet the public in a series of online Q&A forums via Zoom webinar during October.
The forums will also be live streamed on Facebook at facebook.com/LWVME. The forums are sponsored by The Ellsworth American, Mount Desert Islander, Penobscot Bay Press, the YWCA of MDI, JustME for JustUS, and the League of Women Voters Downeast.
There will be an opportunity for the audience to submit questions using the Zoom Q&A function. Those would then be presented by the moderator. In order to participate in the Q&A portion of the event, people must register for the webinar at lwvme.org/Events. Questions may be submitted in advance by email to downeast@lwvme.org. Recordings of the forums will be posted to the League’s website.
HANCOCK COUNTY COMMISSIONERS RACE
Paul Paradis (R, incumbent, Bar Harbor) vs. Samuel DiBella (D, Hancock)
There is a League of Women Voters’ forum with both candidates viewable on Facebook here.
District 3 includes Franklin, Hancock, Lamoine, Trenton, Bar Harbor, Mt. Desert, Tremont, Southwest Harbor, Cranberry Isles, Swan’s Island, and Frenchboro.
PAUL PARADIS
Do you have a campaign website link or a way for people to learn more about you/get in touch with you.
I have no campaign website. I can be reached via email at paul.paradis@hancockcountymaine.gov.
Occupation: Owner/President – Paradis Ace Hardware in Bar Harbor
Family: Married to Beth Paradis for 36 years, one daughter Hannah who is 27 years old.
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
No
Previous public office positions or appointments:
Bar Harbor Town Council 13 years – 3 years as chair.
Why are you seeking this office?
I have served as a County Commissioner for four years and feel I am making a difference. Although four years is a long time, there is much work to finish and leaving now would leave me with a sense of leaving too much unfinished business. The County Emergency Operations Center project is an example. Navigating and ensuring county compliance with the state mandate surrounding inmate medical care is another.
What are the major differences between you and the other candidate(s) seeking this post?
Experience. There is a steep learning curve and many distinct operating differences between county and municipal governments which are largely defined in state statue. My four years of experience on the County Commission allow me to continue working on behalf of District III municipal taxpayers without having to re-navigate those differences.
What do you see as the top issues facing your Hancock County and the state, and how do you address them in your campaign platform?
First and foremost are the budgetary requirements to sustain current levels of service in conjunction with complying with the many state mandates on Maine counties.
The County Jail inmate medical mandate mentioned above is one glaring example.
Hancock County was fortunate to fund many needed county projects with Covid-era American Rescue Plan funds. This enabled Hancock County to fund many needed projects without further increasing municipal county assessments. A major challenge moving forward will be to budget for necessary maintenance and improvements to County infrastructure without these funds.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I have worked to be civil and fair throughout my political career on the Bar Harbor Town Council and as a Hancock County Commissioner. I can maintain my composure and work well with folks whom I may not agree with. I have a strong record of working to compromise to get to workable solutions to most problems or issues.
What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I have been a private pilot and frequent user of the Bar Harbor/Hancock County Airport for 35 years. This gives me a unique perspective to this integral part of Hancock County infrastructure that not many elected officials enjoy.
Why are you running? How does your why for running delve into your bigger life purpose?
I have a strong belief in being involved in public service. Serving and working in municipal, and now county government, is a personal challenge that gives me great satisfaction. It’s how I give back to the place I call home.
How would you try to create more trust between people not on town boards/committees and those who are?
Respect and listen to the point of view of others. Compromise when necessary to accomplish the task at hand. It is OK to disagree, but not OK to belittle and put yourself above others you serve. Civility is of vital importance.
What have you done for yourself that you’re the most proud of? What have you done for the community that you’re the most proud of?
I am proud of our business, Paradis Ace Hardware, in Bar Harbor. My parents founded this business in 1972. Through the hard work of our family and devoted crew, this small business continues to thrive while filling a need in our community. Being part of a group of folks that works so hard to fill such a community need is a tremendous source of pride in the business, our Paradis Ace Hardware family, and our customers from all over Hancock County. I am in a truly blessed position to have a source of pride that serves my family’s, as well as my community’s needs.
MAINE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES - DISTRICT 14
Gary Friedmann (D, Bar Harbor) vs Sandra Gray (R, Lamoine) For Lynne Williams (D, Bar Harbor)
District 14 includes the following towns:
Bar Harbor
Cranberry Isles
Lamoine
Mount Desert
Lynne Williams (D) of Bar Harbor last held the position.
GARY FRIEDMANN
Campaign Website link (if any) or a way for people to learn more about you/get in touch with you.
https://www.electgaryfriedmann.com/
Occupation:
President, Gary Friedmann & Associates—helping nonprofits across Maine improve their communities with strategic planning and leadership development
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
No
Previous public office positions or appointments
Four terms (currently) — Bar Harbor Town Council
Why are you seeking this office?
My first grandchild was born in Portland a few months ago. I know firsthand that working families need affordable childcare and health care. All our grandchildren should grow up with opportunities for good education, safe schools, rewarding jobs, and affordable housing. They deserve a clean environment, stable climate, and a government that is responsive to the people.
For more than a decade, I have been a climate activist, bringing local solutions to MDI that save people money and reduce carbon emissions. I led Maine Citizens for Clean Elections to make government transparent and accountable to the voters. I helped found Our Power to make electric utilities more reliable, less expensive, and powered by renewables. These are the values I want to bring to Augusta.
What are the major differences between you and the other candidate(s) seeking this post?
I have a proven track record with 12 years on the Bar Harbor Conservation Commission and ten years as an elected official in local government, and have reached out across idealogical bounds to get things done. I have worked with Independents, Democrats, and Republicans to get bills passed in Augusta.
What do you see as the top issues facing your Hancock County and the state, and how do you address them in your campaign platform?
Maine has the highest property tax burden in the United States, costing fixed and low-income households more than 5% of their income. Taxpayer relief must be one of the Legislature’s top priorities, and a Local Option Lodging Tax would provide new revenues from those that can afford to pay—primarily out-of-state visitors.
This optional tax would allow local town meetings to assess up to 2% on all lodging, including short-term vacation rentals, campgrounds, B&Bs and hotels. Airbnb and VRBO are now in almost every town and could provide tax relief for municipal operations and infrastructure.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
Generating tax savings through new sources of revenue through rooftop solar projects on town facilities; being a voice for taxpayers seeking new sources of revenues and watching the budget like a hawk; listening to residents on issues like cruise ships, short-term vacation rentals, and tourism management. Local climate wins through A Climate to Thrive and the town's Climate Emergency Task Force; and statewide wins through the coalition I co-founded, Maine Climate Action Now. Through my business, I build collaborative leadership to fund projects like the $14 million Jesup Library expansion/renovation, the Island Explorer, and the MDI YMCA.
What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
For twelve years on Town Council, I’ve been listening to and speaking out for the year-round residents of Bar Harbor. My actions on Council have been informed and shaped by these conversations.
For 30 years I have run a local consulting business that helps nonprofits succeed, helping hundreds of organizations across Maine develop strategic plans, build capacity, and raise over $100 million to strengthen our communities. These organizations provide local housing, food security, rural healthcare, playgrounds, education, arts and culture, transportation, healthy aging services, and so many other services we all depend on.
My wife Glenon founded Bar Harbor Farm, which, with our two partners and several employees, feeds 150 local families and delivers organic produce to several restaurants and food pantries. We know firsthand that our communities rely on collaboration, hard work, perseverance, and taking care of each other.
Why are you running? How does your why for running delve into your bigger life purpose?
I love the towns in this district. They are filled with people who care about this place and their neighbors. Maine has been good to me and our family, and this is one way I can give back to our community and to our state.
How would you try to create more trust between people not on town boards/committees and those who are?
By reaching out to the voters of this district and listening to them; by communicating regularly through various media; and by attending community events and through being visible and accessible, serving as a bridge between local residents and State government.
What have you done for yourself that you’re the most proud of? What have you done for the community that you’re the most proud of?
My wife, Glenon, and I have raised our two daughters here and built our own passive solar home.
I co-founded A Climate to Thrive, spearheading the solarization of all MDI Towns, including MDI High School. During sunny days in the spring and fall, most of the electricity MDI consumes comes from the sun.
SANDRA GRAY
Campaign Website link (if any) or a way for people to learn more about you/get in touch with you.
Sandra.j.gray05@gmail.com or 207-667-0059. If no answer please leave a message.
Occupation:
Retired Research Assistant at The Jackson Laboratory
Family:
As a seventh-generation Mainer, I am mother to three, grandmother to seven, and great-grandmother to two with another on the way.
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
Yes!
Previous public office positions or appointments:
No previous public office positions or appointments but real life experiences with understanding of the day-to-day struggles trying to live in these times.
Why are you seeking this office?
Because I have seen and heard enough of the politics in Augusta and want to bring back common sense and transparency to our Maine government, as well as make Maine a better, safer place for our children, veterans, and elderly. A place where small businesses flourish with pride.
What are the major differences between you and the other candidate(s) seeking this post?
Having never met my opponent, I can only assume that we have different views on the many issues we have, such as the economy, affordable housing for Maine people, and most important the safety of our citizens during this time of open borders.
What do you see as the top issues facing your Hancock County and the state, and how do you address them in your campaign platform?
Hancock County has a huge need for affordable/low income housing, as well as the need for nursing homes for our aging citizens. The cost of food, gas, and heating fuel is huge for most Mainers, most of these wonderful hard working people want real transparent change in our state government.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I stand with my integrity, great work ethics, morals, and values.
What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I am not a politician, but I am a good listener who believes everyone from all viewpoints should have their voice heard. I believe in free and fair elections, government transparency, and one topic per bill not several topics unrelated lumped together.
Why are you running? How does your why for running delve into your bigger life purpose?
Having watched how far our country has strayed in the last 3 1/2 years, it is an honor to answer the call to serve my country. So, I am running to bring back a brighter, safer future for my family and yours.
How would you try to create more trust between people not on town boards/committees and those who are?
I will continue to be myself in all communications with people on or off boards and committees who are serious about working for long term solutions to the many issues we are faced with each and every day.
What have you done for yourself that you’re the most proud of? What have you done for the community that you’re the most proud of?
As a Conservative Christian, I am a proud believer in our Constitution and Bill of Rights.
For the community: Volunteered for Domestic Violence Hotline. I donate regularly to local food pantries. Over the years, I served as a leader/co-leader of Girl Scouts of America.
MAINE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES – DISTRICT 15
Holly Eaton (D, Deer Isle, incumbent) vs Jason Joyce (Swan’s Island, independent)
The district includes :
Brooklin
Deer Isle
Eagle Island Township
Frenchboro
Isle au Haut
Marshall Island
Southwest Habor
Stonington
Swan's Island
Tremont
Vinalhaven
The image below is for an upcoming candidate forum. The forums will also be live streamed on Facebook at facebook.com/LWVME
HOLLY EATON
Campaign Website
Re-Elect Representative Holly Eaton HD 15
Occupation:
Self-employed house cleaner, massage therapist, representative, and single parent.
Family:
I am supported by my mother and father; Rosemary and Wayne Eaton, my brother; Heath Eaton, and my two sons; Samuel and Harbor Eaton.
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
No. Only me.
Previous public office positions or appointments
Deer Isle-Stonington School board member, Appeals Committee for the Town of Deer Isle (secretary), Stonington Lobster Working Group.
Why are you seeking this office?
I’m running because I’ve proven that I’m more than a one-topic candidate. Fishing is vital to our district, but many key decisions are now being made at the federal level. Beyond that, I’m committed to protecting reproductive freedom, which is under threat nationally and must be safeguarded here in Maine. Additionally, with Congress failing to pass effective gun legislation, it’s critical that we continue to work on common-sense gun laws at the state level that reflect our values. My goal is to represent all aspects of the district’s needs and ensure that every voice is heard in Augusta.
What are the major differences between you and the other candidate(s) seeking this post?
While my opponent focuses primarily on fishing, I believe that our district requires a broader approach to meet its diverse needs. Fishing is, of course, vital to our community, but I’ve worked on a wider range of issues, from housing and reproductive freedom to transportation and gun safety. Serving on the Transportation Committee during the 131st legislative session gave me the opportunity to advocate for our district’s infrastructure needs. My focus has always been on representing all aspects of our community to ensure we continue to thrive.
What do you see as the top issues facing your Hancock County and the state, and how do you address them in your campaign platform?
Our coastal infrastructure requires dedicated investment, and I’ve worked on advocating for these needs in the legislature. Recent storms have shown that climate change is an urgent concern for our communities, and I believe we must prepare for the impacts ahead.
Housing affordability and access to childcare are deeply interconnected issues for working families. As a single parent who has faced both challenges, I’m committed to policies that promote affordable housing and improve access to quality childcare. These are essential steps to ensuring families in our district can build stable, fulfilling lives. I remain focused on improving education, addressing workforce shortages, and ensuring access to mental health and addiction services.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
Having served as your representative for the past two years, I’ve consistently worked to address the diverse needs of our district. I’ve proven that I’m willing to vote outside party lines when necessary, like opposing offshore wind policies that could harm our lobster industry, while also advocating for issues like reproductive freedom, which I fought for by driving to Augusta with my kids in tow to cast my vote in favor of LD 1619.
Additionally, I was honored to join the Transportation Committee during the 131st legislative session. This allowed me to advocate for the critical infrastructure our district relies on. My personal experience with housing challenges also informs my work, and I’m committed to finding real solutions for the people of District 15.
What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I come from a family of fishermen and worked as a sternman for several years, so I understand the deep connection our community has to the fishing industry. While fishing is a critical part of our economy, I also believe in the importance of representation and diversity. Serving on the local school board, I saw firsthand the need for diverse voices in decision-making.
I graduated from Regis College in Weston, Massachusetts, with a degree in English. My education gave me the skills to be a thoughtful and effective advocate for my community, and I’ve applied those skills as your representative.
This commitment to public service also led me to co-found Island Pride, supporting the local LGBTQ+ community. I regularly attend community meetings and host meet-and-greets to stay connected with the needs of our constituents.
As a single parent, I understand how difficult it is to find affordable childcare. I’ve consistently voted in line with the district’s needs, even when it meant stepping outside party lines. My focus is on protecting our district’s future through climate resilience, housing solutions, and ensuring our children can thrive here if they choose.
Why are you running? How does your why for running delve into your bigger life purpose?
I am running because I believe that everyone in our district deserves representation that reflects their needs and values. Born and raised here, I’ve always felt a deep connection to our community and its people. As a single parent and someone who has faced the housing crisis firsthand, I’m motivated to ensure that families like mine can live, work, and thrive in our district.
My commitment to public service began with my work as a community liaison, continued through my time serving on the local school board, and in my involvement with several nonprofit organizations, including the Healthy Island Project and the Island Fishermen’s Wives Association. These roles have only deepened my dedication to community service, which I now carry with me in the legislature. I believe my purpose is to be a voice for those who might otherwise go unheard, from our fishermen to our teachers to the next generation of Mainers. My goal is to make our district a place where everyone has the opportunity to succeed, whether through affordable housing, better infrastructure, or protecting the rights of all Mainers.
How would you try to create more trust between people not on town boards/committees and those who are?
Building trust starts with ensuring that every resident feels heard and valued. It’s important to create open lines of communication between town boards and the public. I’ve found that hosting community meetings and informal “meet-and-greet” events has been an effective way to connect directly with constituents and give them the opportunity to share their concerns in a comfortable setting.
Transparency is also key—people need to know what’s happening and how decisions are being made. Encouraging town boards and committees to share more regular updates, provide clear agendas, and invite public participation can go a long way in fostering trust. By creating more opportunities for people to engage and feel included, we can bridge the gap and build a stronger sense of community.
What have you done for yourself that you’re the most proud of? What have you done for the community that you’re the most proud of?
Personally, one of my proudest achievements is running my 2022 campaign and winning while staying true to my values and political affiliation. It was a challenging yet rewarding experience that solidified my commitment to public service. Overcoming personal and political hurdles while remaining honest to who I am is something I take great pride in.
For my community, I am most proud of my service as a representative for the past two years. Whether it was advocating for reproductive freedom, supporting housing initiatives, or addressing our district’s infrastructure needs, I have worked tirelessly to ensure the voices of District 15 are heard. My service is a testament to my dedication to the people of this district, and I am proud to represent and fight for the needs of our community.
JASON JOYCE
Campaign Website:
Occupation:
8th generation islander and lobsterman
Family:
Married 35 years, four grown children, four grandchildren.
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
None of my family works in government or politics
Previous public office positions or appointments
Currently serving in eighth year as Swan's Island Town Selectman, also elected to Swan's Island Conservation Area Committee, Zone B lobster representative, Maine State Lobster Advisory Committee, and serving on the board of Maine Lobstermen's Association, New England Fishermen’s Stewardship Association, and the University of Maine Lobster Institute.
Why are you seeking this office?
I am running to better represent the towns and people of this district. The towns currently suffer from neglect in regards to lack of communication and the level of representation in Augusta.
What are the major differences between you and the other candidate(s) seeking this post?
The current representative has no local government experience, does not visit the select board meetings, and is very partisan, party focused, and party oriented.
I am a non-partisan Independent with seven years local governance experience and focused on representing the will of the towns and citizens in my district.
I have devoted my entire fishing career focused on protecting and defending sustainable fishing industries, lobstering in particular, and the people and communities and businesses who depend on it's success. I do know my opponent worked at Penobscot East, but unsure if she has devoted any personal involvement previously on behalf of lobstering or commercial fisheries.
I've depended on the Maine State Ferry Service my entire life, therefore it's well-being is a priority. My opponent does not depend on the Maine State Ferry Service nor has lived on an unbridged island to my knowledge.
I have volunteered with my local fire department years ago, I do not know my opponents past service experience.
What do you see as the top issues facing your Hancock County and the state, and how do you address them in your campaign platform?
Top issues are improving the MSFS, replacing the Deer Isle bridge, improving the Deer Isle Causeway, improving Seawall and ensuring it remains open, assisting volunteer first responders and the issues of recruitment and retention, addressing loss of local housing options, loss of nursing homes, stopping the ASMFC gauge increase, preparing for the end of the short-term reprieve on further whale safe gear reductions, and educating legislators about the negatives on our environment by industrializing the Gulf of Maine.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I have been involved in fisheries advocacy for over 20 years addressing multiple commercial fisheries issues, have worked with DOT on state road issues, have relationships with multiple first responders in leadership roles in the district, have worked within the municipalities to advocate for a better ferry service.
I am not afraid to speak up and speak out on behalf of my district and happy to work with any group which aligns with my districts interests. Having friends on both sides of the aisle, as an Independent, can bring balance and build alliances to get issues addressed and problems solved.
What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I will strongly work with select boards and town managers to be your voice in Augusta for your community.
Why are you running? How does your why for running delve into your bigger life purpose?
I am running because I don't want to be the final generation of my family to be able to live in this district. At 54, I am at a point in my life that if I'm going to effectively give back to my community and this district, it is now.
Considering the toxicity of politics as a whole, it's a time for reasonable, level-headed non-partisan problem solving, and well-thought out policies that can anticipate possible long term pitfalls and will research all issues for the best way forward.
How would you try to create more trust between people not on town boards/committees and those who are?
Creating more trust within town governance takes patience and understanding. Listening to all sides and learning why town officials make sometimes controversial decisions without biases or ideologies which can cause division is difficult.
Many local issues are dealt with by people wanting to do what's best for their town. I would encourage anyone to attend their town select board meetings and to read their town report and learn how your town is run and ask questions.
What have you done for yourself that you’re the most proud of? What have you done for the community that you’re the most proud of?
I try to exemplify trustworthiness, respect, compassion, understanding and a willingness to learn and be someone my wife, my children and my grandchildren are proud of.
My successes in life I'm most proud of revolve around family, friendships, and community; being content to serve in whatever capacity I am afforded; to make this small piece of the world I live in a better place; to strive to leave a better future for the next generation.
When I am able to be a blessing to others, that is where I find success.
MAINE STATE SENATE DISTRICT 7
Neither candidate responded.
Nicole Grohoski (D, Ellsworth, incumbent) vs. Sherman Hutchings (R, Penobscot)
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