Going Indy
Rep. Tom Saviello of Wilton has dropped his Democratic affiliation and has become an independent, narrowing the Democratic majority in the House to two votes with one Green and now two independents represented as well.
Saviello already has an independent voting record and has been outspoken recently in opposition to lower water pollution levels for the Androscoggin. He works as an environmental manager for International Paper.
Visit the new Maine Politics.
posted by @ 12:42 AM 
5 comments
5 Comments:
I can't say this is entirely surprising. Tom Saviello was the only Democratic candidate for the House or Senate to be giving a rating over 50 by MERI in 2004. He's always been pretty Republican, and it's why he was able to keep his seat in such a conservative district.
Posted by John
Saviello's switch actually eliminates the Democrat's majority in the House. They now have only 75 of the 151 seats, though so-called independent Woodbury is a Democrat who runs as an independent so he can get elected in Yarmouth.
The Democrats had a hard time getting 76 seats votes for the budget and on some other big issues because Reps. Merrill and Twomey often vote their conscience. It is interesting to note that Saviello fell in line on those votes and will not be expected to do so in the future. Maybe, out of necessity, the Dems will actual consider compromise in the future instead of one party rule.
Posted by George from Maine
Actually, Saviello was the leading and most vocal proponent of lowering those water quality standards. He works for International Paper, which will benefit from the establishment of lower water quality standards on the Androscoggin.
Posted by Naomi
That's exactly what I meant and thought I had said. Higher standards = lower levels of pollutants. Check the link as well.
Posted by Mike
Saviello had the baldacci administration's full support on that issue.
Posted by George