Mary Shannon Lindstrom

Mary Lindstrom earned a high school diploma from Winter Park High School. She earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Central Florida in 2001 and a graduate degree from George Mason University in 2003. Her career experience includes being self-employed.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I live in Scarborough with my husband, Jason. Together we have four boys. Rooted in the values of family and service, I volunteer with Scarborough Community Services and Maine Medical Center.My commitment to community extends into my professional and civic leadership. In the credit union movement, I have worked to strengthen cooperative values, expand financial well‑being and support organizations that put people before profit. As a member of the Scarborough School Board, I have championed collaboration, transparency and thoughtful policy grounded in what students and their families, educators, and the community need to thrive.I believe deeply in giving back to the community that has supported my family, and I bring that same spirit of care, commitment and connection to everything I do.

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?

I have built a reputation for bringing people with different perspectives together to solve real problems. I believe that durable, effective solutions come from collaboration, listening and finding common ground. Consensus building is at the heart of my leadership, guiding my approach to every challenge and every community conversation. I work to create space where every voice is heard, differences are respected and shared goals emerge, turning diverse viewpoints into collective action that strengthens the whole community.Many Scarborough residents are feeling the strain of Maine’s high cost of living. Rising property taxes, housing costs, electricity bills and everyday essentials are making it harder for people to stay in the community they love. Strengthening affordability requires both immediate relief for households and long-term strategies that stabilize how municipalities raise and manage revenue.

I support exploring new, responsible revenue tools that help municipalities reduce their reliance on property taxes, one of the largest drivers of affordability challenges for Maine residents. One option worth evaluating is a local option sales tax, applied specifically to industries and purchases typically associated with tourism.Responsible growth is key to keeping Maine a place where families can thrive. As our communities expand, we must balance development with infrastructure and housing needed to support it while protecting our natural resources.

I support looking at policies that encourage responsible economic development in Maine while properly managing the impacts of growth and ensuring that development reflects local values and long-term sustainability. Maine is a state that requires proactive planning, both to guide where and how communities grow and to ensure that housing remains attainable for working families. Thoughtful planning, paired with strong environmental stewardship, will help our communities expand in ways that preserve Maine’s character and

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I’m personally passionate about several areas of public policy that shape the strength, stability and well‑being of our communities. Education is foundational for me. I believe deeply in ensuring that every student has access to high‑quality learning and opportunities to thrive. I’m equally committed to policies that help seniors remain independent and connected with access to the services and supports they need as they age.

I care strongly about healthcare, especially efforts that improve access, affordability and preventive care so families can stay healthy without facing financial strain. My background has also shaped my passion for financial well‑being, consumer protection and reasonable banking policies.

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

I believe that anyone serving in public office should lead with honesty, transparency and a commitment to facts. Elected officials have a responsibility to communicate clearly, act with integrity and make decisions based on what will strengthen and support their community. Good leadership means listening, weighing impacts carefully and ensuring that every choice reflects both the needs and the values of the people they serve.

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

The core responsibilities of someone elected to public office begin with a duty to the people they serve, not to a party or political agenda. Effective public leadership requires honesty, transparency and a commitment to facts. Elected officials must take the time to understand issues fully, consider reliable data, listen to diverse perspectives and weigh the real‑world impact of their decisions on the community. Their role is to make thoughtful, responsible choices that strengthen public trust and reflect the needs, values and well‑being of the people who placed their confidence in them.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first job was as a bagger at Goodings, a local grocery store in Florida, that I held for about a year. It was the kind of job that teaches you a lot early on, how to work hard, the importance of being reliable and to treat every person with kindness.

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

I believe the ideal relationship between a governor and the state legislature is one of partnership and shared commitment to the betterment of Maine. Each has a distinct role, but both are responsible for serving the people with honesty, transparency and respect. When the executive and legislative branches work together by listening to one another, grounding decisions in facts and focusing on what strengthens communities, they create a more effective, responsive government. Collaboration doesn’t mean agreement on every issue; it means recognizing that progress comes from working toward common goals and keeping the needs of Maine people at the center of every decision.

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

One of Maine’s greatest challenges over the next decade will be attracting and retaining younger residents while growing in a responsible, sustainable way. Maine is currently the oldest state in the nation by age, and that demographic reality affects our workforce, our economy and our long‑term vitality. Ensuring that young people see Maine as a place where they can build a future through strong schools, affordable housing, meaningful career opportunities and vibrant communities will be essential. At the same time, growth must be managed carefully so it strengthens the character of our towns, supports existing residents and maintains the quality of life that makes Maine unique.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

I believe compromise is not only necessary but essential for effective policymaking. Good decisions come from considering all viewpoints, weighing facts and data carefully and recognizing that progress often means finding solutions that may not give everyone exactly what they want, but move the community forward in a meaningful way. Thoughtful compromise honors the diversity of perspectives within a community and ensures that policy reflects shared needs rather than rigid positions.

What was the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember?

The first historical event I remember is the Oklahoma City bombing. I was home sick from school that day, and I can still recall the moment that The Price is Right was interrupted as the news broke in with live coverage. Even as a child, I understood that something devastating had happened, and the shock and gravity of that day stayed with me.