Joseph Baldacci

Education We also have to invest in universal pre-K programs, ensuring that families who don’t have the ability to pay for private programs are not left behind. Taxes / Budget We need to impose a modest tax on income over a million dollars annually and corporations who have thrived at the expense of workers. Housing We need to restrict predatory companies from coming into our state, buying up all of the housing inventory, and then renting units at prices that working Mainers cannot afford. Civil Rights At the federal level, we need to pass the Equality Act, the John Lewis Voting Rights Act, and efforts to safeguard your private data so it cannot be used against you. Education Additionally, Joe will fight for our most vulnerable students by increasing funding for special education and for schools in low-income communities. Environment / Energy We have a duty to protect our environment to ensure that future generations of loggers, farmers, and fishermen are able to thrive. Abortion / Contraception In Congress, Joe will fight to codify Roe, increase funding for sexual health education, and ensure that people are getting the reproductive health care they need, regardless of ability to pay, because our communities are safer when they are healthier. Wages / Job Benefits Additionally, we need to pay our childcare providers wages that reflect the essential work they’re doing. Social Services We need to protect your benefits while ensuring that generations to come are able to enjoy the fruits of their labor. This can all be done without taxes on your benefits, increasing the retirement age, or cutting programs that help seniors afford their much-needed prescriptions. Healthcare We need to decrease insurance costs, decrease prescription drug costs, keep rural hospitals open and funded, and ensure that all medical bills are transparent and fair. Wages / Job Benefits We need to relieve the burden that many working parents feel by investing in quality, affordable childcare options and providing guaranteed family leave. Environment / Energy This is the 2nd most rural Congressional district in the entire country, and Joe will ensure that we are investing in affordable green alternatives to fossil fuels that will lower costs while also protecting the lands and oceans that Mainers for generations have enjoyed. Abortion / Contraception Joe has been pro-choice his entire life. His strong belief in the Constitution, in every individual’s right to privacy, is his guiding force. Taxes / Budget By expanding the Child Tax Credit and providing a monthly stipend to families with children, it would cut child poverty in half in the state of Maine. Civil Rights Joe will fight for all Mainers regardless of gender, skin color, sexuality, ability, or income level. We have to stop the division and protect our vulnerable populations. Education In Congress, Joe will fight to raise the minimum starting salaries for teachers and support staff so our students receive the best education with fewer disruptions and turnover. Social Services Social Security isn’t a privilege, it’s your right. Education We have to properly pay teachers and support staff, decrease teacher-student ratios, and address the unfair funding disparities caused by the problematic property tax funding formula that leaves children in the most vulnerable areas behind.