Colleen O'Neal

Colleen O'Neal was born in Utica, New York. She earned a graduate degree from Angelo State University in 2020. Her career experience includes working as an emergency responder. O'Neal has been affiliated with Parents Rights in Education, the Bangor GOP, the Penobscot County GOP, the NRA, Operation Underground Railroad, and Parents Rights Maine.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My husband Steve and I have been married for 31 years; I'm a mother of two, a grandmother to four, and a lover of rescue dogs ~ especially our three!

No, I'm not a native Bangorian or even a Mainer by birth ~ I am proudly and happily one by choice! I am 59, was born in upstate New York and lived in Texas for many years. When Steve and I were considering retirement, we knew it was the right time to do what we had always wanted: move to Maine, specifically Bangor! We've discovered wonderful neighborhoods, a relatively low crime rate, an endless variety of cultural and entertainment options, and that we're centrally located for going on adventures to enjoy all that this gorgeous state offers. Moreover, we have met some of the finest people in the world here.

For over thirty years, my career has been as a public servant, first as a paramedic, then twenty years in emergency management, from which I retired as a Recovery Chief. While serving in those positions, I also volunteered hundreds of hours as a victim liaison, meeting and helping people during their most vulnerable times.

My educational background includes a Bachelor of Security Studies in Intelligence and Analysis and a Master of Science in Homeland Security.

I'm a lover of liberty and a staunch supporter of the United States Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the law of the land. I believe in the values our great country was founded on and am committed to serving my community.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Maine has a spending problem which only translates to higher taxes. I've heard too many times people saying they are going to have to leave the state they love because they can no longer afford to live here. This is reprehensible! If elected, I work to decrease spending, decrease taxes, reinstate the over 65 tax break, and put the cap back on to what municipalities can charge in homeowners tax.Our children should be our number one priority. We have gone from number one in school scores to number 50 within the last four years but our school taxes continue to rise! Additionally, the majority in the Legislature has passed bills that are harming our children and taking rights away from parents. The education of children and how parents decide to raise their children ( as long as it's without harm) belong to the parents, not the establishment. If i'm elected, I will work to repeal the harmful laws, reduce the powers of the school boards, and call for open and full transperancy of what's being taught in our schools.13 of 16 counties in Maine are considered to have a shortage of health professionals. Many citizens have to travel hundreds of miles or out of state to receive decent healthcare. This is unacceptable. If elected, I will work towards granting incentives for healthcare professionals to stay and work in Maine.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Our justice system is in peril. We are down 200 officers throughout the state and only 35 Maine State Trooper positions have been approved. Additionally, corrections officers are down 40%. Rural area police departments are closing. Our citizens deserve better. If elected. I will work to increase pay and incentives for all Maine law enforcement and work towards a systametic and sustainable recruitment plan.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

The U.S. Constitution.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Honesty, integrity, and transperency.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Working for what is the will of the people and not the will of the person.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

I remember watching the devastation of the Challenger explosion. I was 21 at the time

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

To be nonpartisan and listen

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Recruiting companies, increasing jobs and job training. Maine spends more than 2.9 billion in welfare payments. This is not sustainable.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

No. Common sense and a calling to do the will of the people should be all a Legislature needs.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Absoutely. You need to surround yourself with individuals who are like minded but will voice an alternative opinion.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Billy Bob Faulkingham stands up for small business in Maine

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

No

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

I've heard too many times how everyday citizens may have to leave the state they love because it's getting too expensive to live here.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

Yes, No one person should be in control of emergency powers.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

I will introduce a bill that reduces the property tax burden.

What committees interest you?

Criminal Justice and Public Safety and Taxaion

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

All financial transactions, unless it would put security in peril, needs to be available, at anytime, to the public.

Do you support or oppose changes to the current state ballot initiative process? If so, what kind of changes would you consider?

I support having a valid ID to vote and oppose the popular vote.