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John, Over the weekend, I joined a powerful rally in Lewiston to stand in solidarity with our Somali neighbors. I shared what I believe: that no one should fear harassment or detention on the way to the doctor, picking their child up from school, or seeking help in a moment of crisis. Maine should follow in the footsteps of other states and create safe zones around hospitals, courthouses, and schools – because everyone deserves to feel safe in their community. That rally got picked up online – and Tucker Carlson got a hold of it. So yesterday, he took to his show to go on a bizarre and racist tirade about the event – and me – boasting that I “know nothing,” and even suggesting I’m not from here.
Well, Tucker – my parents moved to Maine when I was two years old. We were poor. We didn’t have electricity or running water for years. My dad was a carpenter. My mom worked in a light bulb filament factory and then a greenhouse. I’ve worked hard my whole life. And that woman I was standing with on stage? That’s my dear friend, Safiya. I hired her when I served in the Legislature. She’s a force. And yes – she’s a whole lot better than you. I won’t be distracted by bad-faith attacks. I’m interested in doing what’s right. And here’s what I know: I know that fear has no place in our state. I know that our immigrant neighbors deserve dignity, not demonization. And I know that when you stand up for fairness, and basic human decency – the far-right will come after you. I’ve spent my entire career fighting for civil rights, equality, and democracy. And as I run for Governor of Maine, I’m not backing down now. Take care, Shenna |
