He left home at 11 after a rough childhood, spending time on the streets, yet managed to finish both high school and college. He later went on to work as a Pepsi-Cola truck driver, at a meat-packing plant and as a short-order cook.
This is the story of Gov. Paul LePage, who, in a little more than six months, has ushered in sweeping reforms for Maine — a record of accomplishments it might take other governors years to achieve. What’s even more remarkable is that LePage is a tea party-backed conservative making significant strides in supposedly hostile New England.
LePage visited Heritage recently and shared the piece of advice that have inspired him throughout his life — just 10 two-letter words: “If it is to be, it is up to me.”
He was at Heritage to talk about the reforms he’s made to health care — efforts that limit the damage Obamacare will inflict on the state.
While that issue has made LePage a hero in some circles, it’s just one of several items on his agenda. He’s also made reforms to welfare and pensions as well as advancing charter schools. There’s more to come, too. LePage plans to turn his attention to energy and continue the progress on education.
Our interview with LePage runs about 4 minutes. Hosted by Rob Bluey and produced by Brandon Stewart, with the help of Hannah Sternberg.
