Messinger running for Maine House District 86 seat

Craig Messinger, a Democrat from Raymond, has announced his candidacy for Maine House of Representatives District 86, which includes Raymond, Casco, Frye Island, and part of Poland.

Craig Messinger has announced his candidacy
as a Democrat for the Maine House of
Representatives District 86 seat, which
includes Raymond, Casco, Frye Island, and 
part of Poland, He is a lifelong firefighter
and a longtime Raymond resident.
SUBMITTED PHOTO

“As a lifelong firefighter I know that when you’re fighting a fire there’s no time to stand around arguing, you have to work together to get people the help they need. There’s too much arguing and not enough working together,” Messinger said.” That’s why I’m running to bring teamwork to Augusta to solve the problems we’re facing as a state: out of control costs, ensuring our older residents can age with dignity, and equipping our youth to build successful lives here in Maine. I believe communication and listening is missing from our political environment today, which is why I always listen to both sides of a situation and don’t base my decisions on a political party or an agenda.”

Messinger is a longtime Raymond resident, where he and his wife raised their family. He is a deacon in his church, where he organizes community dinners, provides outreach to elderly congregants, and is a dedicated food pantry volunteer.

He’s also developed a strong understanding of local issues and needs. From delivering a baby in an apartment while serving as a firefighter/paramedic in Portland, to coaching softball and soccer when his daughter was in middle school, Messinger has spent his life quietly helping his community thrive. He now hopes to bring that track record of helping his community to Augusta.

“I’ve seen first-hand how hard it can be for our seniors to age in rural communities like ours, and we need to do more to support them. At the same time, we need to support our young adults as they seek to obtain an education and opportunities here in Maine. I’m lucky that my daughter has been able to get a great education here, and I want to make sure every Maine kid has the chance to be a lifelong Mainer.”

District 86 has been represented for the past four terms by Jessica Fay of Raymond.

As she terms out, Fay says Messinger will serve District 86 superbly if he is elected this fall.

“Craig is exactly the right person to represent us in Augusta,” Fay said. “He has always been an active member of our community. Craig has spent his professional career serving and caring for others. I believe that he will do the same for us in Augusta.” <