Story Category: Politics »

During a recent visit on Baynet Radio and TheBAYNET.com, Maryland State Senator, Thomas ‘Mac’ Middleton talked about his 16 years of service to Marylanders in the Senate and about the issues facing citizens.

“I have been honored to represent the 28th legislative district in the Maryland State Senate and humbly ask for your continued support. With the Lord’s blessing, hard work and a consensus-building approach, I have continued my leadership role in the Senate, as Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee,” said Middleton.

The Senator stated that during his time in office, he fought for working families, to increase education funding, improve teachers’ pensions, construct the Hughesville Bypass, fund aggressive efforts to win approvals for the Waldorf Bypass and to provide seniors property tax relief and affordable prescription drugs.

Middleton also stated that as Chair of the Senate Finance Committee he has worked hard to improve Marylander’s access to affordable healthcare. When asked about the current Federal healthcare legislation, Middleton said, “I’m glad that a law has been passed. It was needed. However, we have real concerns about the Federal deficit and think that after states make the infrastructure changes required, the Feds may force states to finance all of it themselves, which will be difficult given the current economy.”

When asked about Maryland’s economic situation, Middleton said, “The main issue here is jobs, jobs, jobs,” He went on to state that Maryland needs to do a better job at attracting employers to the state. “We have some of the best schools and universities in the country so employers needing a qualified workforce should look here.”

When asked about statements by other candidates that Maryland is not ‘business-friendly’ the veteran legislator said, “We have a lot of regulations that are directly related to the environment here. Those regulations help keep the treasures we all enjoy viable – the Chesapeake Bay, Patuxent, Wicomico and our other great rivers. Our farmlands are very important, but we can do a better job of reducing the red tape businesses encounter when they come into the state.” He went on to say that environmental concerns would always be a top priority for the state.

As a farmer, Middleton knows the challenges faced by all small business owners. He also recognizes the challenges in retaining Charles County’s rural atmosphere, working to preserve resident’s quality of life.

The Senator has served the people of Charles County for years. As a member; then as chairman of the Charles County Planning Commission from 1978 to 1985, he worked for better management of growth in the county.

When elected in 1986 as president of the Charles County Commissioners, Middleton worked to improve county government services, education, and growth management. “I helped steer the county through some very tough fiscal times during the last recession and ultimately improved the county’s bond rating,” said Middleton.

Sen. Middleton has outlined his position on all the major issues facing Maryland on his website, www.macmiddletong.com. Those interested should visit the site to see where he stands on education, jobs, the economy, farming, the environment and more. “People can also contact me through the Web site,” said Middleton. He also stated that Marylanders are welcome to contact him through his Senate office. “I have some great people working for me at the Senate and they will make sure each and every concern is addressed,” said Middleton.