Two years ago, I volunteered to drive Cheryl Golek as she campaigned for the first time to be elected to the Maine House of Representatives. I didn’t know much about Cheryl then and thought it would be a good way to decide whether I wanted to vote for her. Fast-forward to this election year, and I’m back behind the wheel helping to reelect her!
What I have learned about Cheryl, first and foremost, is that she cares deeply about people and our community. This district has been her home for her whole life, and she works hard to make it the best place to live for all of us. She is focused on critical issues facing our town, including affordable housing; PFAS contamination and water quality; hardships borne by our fishing families, especially after the recent storms; and health care, including protecting reproductive rights.
In Cheryl’s first term, four of her bills were passed into law. She has earned the respect of her peers for being an honest and hardworking colleague. I’ve witnessed these same qualities when I watch her talk with constituents. I see her listen closely, empathize with their concerns and struggles, share her priorities and legislative record, and, when differences arise, respectfully disagree. I highly value Cheryl’s honesty and openness in today’s political environment of misinformation, extremism and polarization.
So, let’s vote Cheryl in for a second term so she can continue working for us with the knowledge, sincerity and respect she brings to Augusta and to each one of us when she knocks on our doors. Election Day is Nov. 5!
Karen Tcheyan, Orr’s Island
