By Emma Bouthillette 

Staff Writer

Kennebunk Democrat Ed Legg will replace State Rep. Christopher Babbidge on the November ballot for District 141 following the results of a July 24 caucus.

Babbidge announced July 12 he would not be seeking reelection. Kennebunk residents John Burrows and Kaitlyn Cunningham also expressed interest in replacing Babbidge as the Democratic nominee.

Prior to the June 10 primary, no Republican sought that party’s nomination to challenge Babbidge. Kennebunk Republican Committee Chairman John Downing said since the committee did not find a candidate in time, there will not be a Republican listed on the November ballot. However, he said, the committee has discussed the possibility of an independent write-in candidate. For now, Legg will run unopposed for District 141 State Representative. 

At the caucus, more than half of the 84 members of the Kennebunk Democratic Committee present voted in favor of Legg’s nomination.

Legg said he is excited to join the “excellent leaders” in Maine government.

Legg’s resume includes serving as University of New England’s vice president from 2001 to 2006. While at the UNE, Legg represented the university in Augusta and Washington D.C. to secure grants for education and research. He also helped pass five state bond issues in biomedical and marine research and development. Legg has also been a member of the Democratic committee before and after his tenure at UNE.

Legg said as an active member in his community he has a strong opinion about many issues. 

“An immediate issue is the heating oil and energy crisis we could face this winter. I found out yesterday federal aid to low and middle income [households have] been blocked. That puts the burden on the state,” Legg said. 

He said his other priorities include continued work with the bipartisan York County Legislative Caucus to respond to pressing issues in York County, keeping Land for Maine’s Future active, whether or not the state will hold onto water resources and supporting improvements in transportation. He said roads and bridges are another issue that will require attention. Legg said he is also concerned about the implementation of penalties on districts that don’t approve school consolidation.

“I’m going to campaign even though there is no Republican opposition. I’m not new to legislature, but I’m new as a representative, and I want people to feel like I’m accessible,” Legg said. 

To contact Ed Legg, call 967-8543 or email alegg@roadrunner.com.