Ted Susi's ad for State
Representative Seat 86
"I believe Maine’s problems, like
most problems, have solutions, but they need to be addressed, not ignored. Mainers deserve
representatives in Augusta who are willing and able to address the significant issues
facing the state," said Ted Susi, who is running for state representative. "I
want to be that person for the citizens in District 86."
Ted Susi is no stranger to how state
government works. In the late seventies he worked at the Maine Department of State in the
Elections Division, and as an administrative assistant on the Maine Commission on
Governmental Ethics and Election Practices. For the majority of his career he was a civil
lawyer in Skowhegan where he had a practice until 1995.
As a proud father of two children,
Christie, and John Dominic, Susi opted to leave his law practice in 1995 and became a
stay-at-home dad. His wife Katherine is a first grade teacher in Skowhegan. At that time
he managed the family’s natural resource holdings, including woodlots and waterfront
properties, and served on the Credentials and Investment Committees at the Redington
Fairview General Hospital.
"I’m actually excited by all the
sense of community in the area. New Balance [shoes] donated funds to build a new
playground at the local park in Norridgewock. Mrs. Clinton was right when she said it
takes a community. It does, and in Maine we still have that sense of community," said
Susi. "Every time my children return home, from college or work, we have backyard
gatherings. People come by and want to know how they are doing. It’s great to be part
of a caring community. It does make a difference."
"Of course education is a major issue
in our household; I’m so proud of the teachers in our public schools. They give our
children a top-notch education. Both of my children went to great colleges. But teachers
deserve better. The Federal No Child Left Behind Act has done more harm than good.
Teachers know how to teach; now they are forced to meet standards that take away from
teaching," said Susi. "Also, I will ensure that state funding for education does
reach the 55 percent level."
When Susi visits the towns in the area
where he is running, he makes sure that he talks with the workers in the town offices.
"When I worked for the Elections Division I remember taking the time and listening to
the town workers. It’s important. They are the ones doing the work, they know what
needs fixing," said Susi. "It’s better to listen to people than to pass
laws that are not relevant to the needs of the people the laws affect."
Susi is aware of local issues and attends
town meetings in District 86. He would work to have the state help out established
businesses more and is excited by the US Functional Foods choice in Madison.
The affable candidate loves going door to
door, campaigning. "I do love it. Most people are so grateful that someone who is
running actually knocked on their door. They often tell me that I’m the first
candidate that has ever been to their house."
Susi says he wants to go to Augusta to effect change.
He’s not interested in becoming a career politician, so he’s not afraid to stand
up for his constituents. "I don’t want to waste time. I want to do something for
my community, my district — my state."
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