Nancy McDowell
Protecting What We All Love
Running to represent House District 29: Chester, East Millinocket, Grindstone, Herseytown, Indian Purchase, Medway, Millinocket, Mount Chase, Patten, Soldiertown, & Woodville
About Nancy
I’ve lived in Maine for over 50 years and have seen a lot of change along the way. I recently moved to East Millinocket to be closer to my family and to Baxter State Park—my favorite place to hike. This region reflects what I’ve always loved about Maine: independence, resilience, and a deep connection to the land and to each other. It’s a place where people look out for one another, even when times are tough.
I spent twenty years in Customs and Border Protection, serving from Houlton, Maine to international airports at Boston and Bermuda, to Washington, DC. Always practicing public service, not politics. I took an oath to the Constitution—not a party or a person—and I carry that commitment with me today. That experience, along with my earlier work supporting children and adults with developmental disabilities, shaped how I see public service: treat people with dignity, listen carefully, and do the job with integrity. I’m ready to bring that steady, real-world experience to Augusta.
Our region is facing real challenges. The mills are gone, jobs haven’t fully come back, healthcare can be hours away when it matters most, and education is putting pressure on local budgets. I believe we deserve practical solutions and a representative who will focus on what actually improves people’s lives. I believe in the basic goodness of Mainers—we work hard and we show up for each other. I’ll show up every day ready to do the same for you.
What Matters Most
Economic Stability & Local Jobs
This region has been hit hard by the loss of mill jobs, and too many families are still feeling that impact. I support efforts to grow the local economy in a way that fits who we are: supporting small businesses, outdoor recreation, and responsible development that doesn’t sacrifice our natural resources.
Healthcare Access & Emergency Services
In a rural district like ours, access to care can mean the difference between life and death. I support strong funding for emergency services like LifeFlight, protecting rural healthcare access, and making sure seniors and families can afford the care they need.
Mental Health Services
Mental health is a real issue in our communities, and we’re not doing enough. I support increased investment in mental health services so people can get help before a crisis happens.
Supporting Children & Families
I’ve seen how early intervention changes lives for children with special needs. Our schools and communities need the resources to support every child—whether they’re on the spectrum, have physical disabilities, or just need extra help to succeed.
Support for Seniors & Veterans
Many of us around here are retired or heading that way. Our older population and veterans deserve support to continue living with dignity. That means funding for in-home care, strengthening veteran services, and making sure no one is left behind as they age.
Protecting Maine’s Environment
Our natural resources are part of who we are and part of our economic future. We can grow, but we have to do it responsibly—protecting clean air, clean water, and the wilderness that defines this region.