To the editor:
One day last fall, before our world changed when people still had contact with each other, I was about to enter my house after working out in my garden. I was dirty and tired.

Two women approached me, introduced themselves as Michelle McGaw and her long-time friend Isabel, there to tell me that Michelle was going to run for as a candidate for state representative in District 71.

In most normal situations, I would have easily excused myself and gotten away from a solicitation. But both women appeared so sincere and eager to hear what my concerns were as a Tiverton resident. As a pharmacist, she has lived in Portsmouth for almost 30 years, raised a family, and worked on several committees for her town and for the State of Rhode Island. She listened to me, which is rather unusual for someone of the political persuasion. I liked her. 

Now, several months later, Michelle is going to run for Representative Canario’s seat. I am committed to see her name on the ballot, and alert my fellow area residents that she is the real deal: someone to listen to concerns, to work for the environment and climate before it’s too late, an affordable health care system, that includes reproductive care, among other issues. She will work in state government and make sure power is more evenly distributed.

I am no longer new in Rhode Island and, after 15 years, I would like to see Michelle McGaw, with her healthcare background and willingness to work with people, become our state representative. 

I hope my fellow Tivertonians consider Michelle and vote for her as Representative for District 71.

Nancy Papagno

Tiverton