Majority of Senate Democrats Vote Against Newly Confirmed Education Commissioner

Posted: March 03, 2011 | Education and Cultural Affairs, Senator Alfond, Senator Jackson

Ten Maine Democratic Senators voted against Steve Bowen’s nomination to lead Maine’s Department of Education citing concerns about Bowen’s lack of educational experience and his “on the record” remarks disparaging the Department of Education, teachers, and the education system.

During the vote on the Senate floor, Assistant Democratic Leader, Justin Alfond of Cumberland County, was the first Democrat to speak,  “I am most concerned that Mr. Bowen has less experience in the classroom than 80% of Maine’s teachers–nor does he have any experience managing a school department, a school or district.”

The budget for the Maine Department of Education is more than $2 billion.

Alfond, who is the Democratic lead on the Education Committee, has spoken publicly about continuing to improve Maine’s educational system by supporting educators and creating an environment best suited for students. Alfond expressed concern that Bowen’s lack of experience in and among educators will skew his view of the educational system.

“Mr. Bowen has spent a good part of his career writing policy, ” said Alfond. “It is unprecedented that we put someone in this position who has been hostile toward the Department of Education.”  

Senator Troy Jackson of Aroostook County also spoke on the Senate floor in opposition to Mr. Bowen’s nomination.  “There’s a lot of rhetoric right now and it’s all aimed against teachers,” said Jackson. “It would be extremely hard for me to vote in favor of Mr. Bowen after all that he has said in favor of chipping away at teachers’ salaries and and pensions. Supporting Mr. Bowen would be a justification of his position. I cannot do that.”

In Alfond’s final remarks he said he “looks forward to rolling up his sleeves and working with Mr. Bowen to make sure every student gets the educational experience they need.”

The Senate’s recorded vote was 25 in favor of Mr. Bowen and 10 against.