Comment on Senate President Thibodeau announces run for governor in 2018

Maine Senate President Mike Thibodeau announced Tuesday he would join the race for governor in 2018. Thibodeau, of Winterport, is the fourth Republican to enter the race to replace Gov. Paul LePage, who is finishing his second term. Thibodeau, who has been praised by both Republicans and Democrats in the Legislature for his leadership and willingness to compromise on several key issues, especially the state’s two-year budget, made his announcement during an appearance on the Bangor-based WVOM radio show hosted by Ric Tyler and George Hale. Thibodeau said his goal in running for governor is to improve Maine’s economy and provide an opportunity for young people to stay in the state. “We have watched too many of our young people leave the state searching for a brighter economic future,” Thibodeau said.