John Henkelman

John Henkelman earned a bachelor's degree from Palm Beach Atlantic University in 2011 and a graduate degree from the University of New Hampshire in 2024. Henkelman's career experience includes working as a scientist.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a dedicated resident of Sanford who is running to represent the people of Maine House District 143 in the state legislature. My deep commitment to our community is the primary driver of my candidacy, as I believe that the residents of Sanford deserve a representative who is fully focused on their needs and local priorities. I approach public service with a background rooted in the desire to see our government work more efficiently for every citizen, not just the few in power. My professional and personal experiences have taught me the value of objective analysis and transparent communication, qualities that I intend to bring to Augusta on behalf of our district.

I will serve as a bridge between our local community and the state government, advocating for the resources and attention that our schools, small businesses, and infrastructure require to thrive. I believe that, much like the job as a Maine Guide, effective leadership involves listening to all constituents and making decisions based on evidence and long-term benefits rather than short-term political gains.

I am committed to being an accessible and accountable official who remains grounded in the daily realities of the people I represent. By focusing on practical solutions and fiscal responsibility, I will work to ensure that Maine remains a place where families can afford to live, work, and retire.

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?

Reducing the Cost of Living:

Sanford families are feeling the squeeze every time they check out at the grocery store or pay for daycare. My priority is putting money back in your pocket by lowering barriers addressing the rising costs of essential goods and access to affordable childcare. I will support incentivized local food production and a ban predatory surveillance pricing.

I will advocate for universal childcare access by expanding state-level subsidies and tax credits and streamlining regulations for local providers. We must ensure it is possible for our neighbors to not just get by, but to truly get ahead.Strengthening Sanford Family Health and Housing:

A strong Sanford starts with a stable home and the peace of mind that a doctor visit will not break the bank. I am committed to increasing the supply of accessible housing in our district and ensuring healthcare for all is a reality for every Mainer. I will advocate for state incentives and reduced red tape to create missing middle housing for Sanford’s workforce and seniors. I will also work to grow our local mental health workforce and expand addiction recovery options to reduce the strain on Sanford’s police, emergency rooms, and city budget.Conserving Maine’s Future:

We live in Maine because we value our outdoor way of life. My priority is protecting the Maine tradition of open access to our lands and waters to ensure that as our community grows, we do not lose the trails and woods that define us. I will work in the State House to secure grants specifically for our local trail networks. By investing in the maintenance of these multi-use trails, we can support our local outdoor economy and keep our town’s recreational spaces safe and accessible. By focusing on smart-growth in our city’s core, we can take the pressure off our rural areas and protect the quiet, wooded character that we all enjoy.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am personally passionate about protecting the natural resources that define Sanford and the Maine way of life. My priority is to balance conservation with smart economic development by embracing our identity as "Vacationland". I will advocate for programs like Land for Maine’s Future to protect public access for hunting, fishing, and trapping while securing grants for local trail networks to bolster our outdoor recreation economy. By focusing on smart-growth housing in our city core, we can protect the quiet, wooded character of rural areas and ensure the next generation of Mainers can live where they work. We must preserve our outdoor traditions and open spaces to maintain the very environment that drives our local economy.