The Patio at 1578 in South Bristol provided a beautiful backdrop of ocean views and blue skies on May 5 to celebrate both Cinco de Mayo and to hear from First District U.S. Congressional candidate, Ed Thelander.

Longtime supporters gathered to share the growing excitement as we move closer to the June primary. Some newcomers attending the event were there to learn more about the candidate and his stance on issues facing Maine and our country. The positive comments shared among the guests were many. Erick Weiss said, “Ed is a strong, viable candidate who will challenge a longtime incumbent.” Wally Schling added, “I am thrilled to have a retired Navy Seal with strong values and common sense to represent the people of Maine.”

Folks were more than willing to add their opinion, like Steve Morris, who concisely said, “Ed is hardworking and effective.” Quoting Dave Beemer, a friend who flies with Ed, “he is the best low time pilot I’ve ever flown with, but for now, Ed has chosen to serve his country once again.” Another longtime supporter, Joe Felice, said it well, “We need new blood. Ed is conservative-focused and can draw on his Navy Seal career which demanded task-oriented goals with expected outcomes and accountability.”

Later in the evening, Ed fielded numerous questions from the crowd covering a range of topics from border issues, inflation, energy prices, current issues facing the lobster industry and medical freedom to name a few. He said he is “stepping up to run because he does not like the direction the country is headed.”

Ed Thelander is passionate about service to others and feels it is his responsibility to serve his country at this point in history.