The Augusta Civic Center was the site of Maine State 2022 Republican Convention held on April 29-30. Delegates gathered from Aroostock to York Counties to listen to speakers, vote on our party platform, caucus and elect representatives as Republican State Delegates.

Dr. Demi Kouzounas, chairwoman of the Maine Republican Party, called the convention to order. A video from Ronna McDaniel of the National Republican Party welcomed all of our members and presented a positive outlook for the 2022 mid-term elections.

Piscataquis County Chair, Andrew Torbett presented the New Party Platform. After some debate and amendments, the platform was adopted. In general, the Platform eliminates the social engineering happening in our schools and gives power back to the parents.

The Honorable Kathleen Dillingham introduced a full slate of candidates running for the State House of Representatives. The Honorable Jeffery Timberlake introduced candidates running for the State Senate. Lincoln County’s candidates are: Lynn Madison HD45, Merle Parise HD46, Edward Polewarczyk HD47, Tricia Warren HD48, Michael Lemelin HD53, Katrina Smith and Jennifer Turminaro HD62, Abden Simmons SD13, Matthew Brackley SD24.

Attendees were treated to a First Lady Luncheon hosted by Ann LePage. Delegates were asked in advance to submit questions for Mrs. LePage to answer.

Senator Susan Collins offered an animated speech firing up attendees as we look to November’s Republican victories in our state and across the nation. Day one of the Convention ended as we all retired to our assigned caucuses for discussions and voting for State Delegates.

The featured speaker at the sold out banquet on Friday evening was Tommy Hicks, co-chair of the Republican National Committee.

On the second day, delegates enjoyed speeches from various candidates. District Two candidates, Liz Caruso and Bruce Poliquin, showed a stark contrast in personalities but their messages are similar. Either one should bring the Second District seat back to the Republicans.

Former Governor Paul LePage was the next to speak. He quickly reminded us of the prosperous “LePage Years” as a two-term governor. He did not hesitate to compare his record and accomplishments to our current administration.

Ed Thelander, our candidate for the First District U.S. House seat, will unseat a long serving Democrat incumbent. Ed is a retired Navy Seal, volunteer firefighter and a reserve Deputy Sheriff. A family man and true conservative, Ed will reign in government spending, restore election integrity, remove overbearing regulations on Maine’s fishing industry and restore America’s energy independence.

Chairwoman Kouzounas introduced Suheir Alaskari and Aqeel Mohialdeen of the new Maine GOP Multi-Cultural Center which is headquartered in Portland. The purpose of the Center is to encourage and support new immigrants coming to Maine to achieve the American dream.

The Convention ended with all attendees being energized for the fall mid-term election.