Zuccari running for Town of Lewiston Board

Submitted by Andrew Zuccari

My name is Andrew Zuccari. I’m running for Lewiston Town Council in November as an independent on the Lewiston's Choice line and on the Democratic line – not because I’m married to a party, but because they are willing to let me speak the truth. I have no allegiance to political power, and this is my first entry into "politics." At times, both parties have let me down, as I know they’ve let many of you down. Like many of you, I’ve argued with friends and family over politics!

Over the next few months, I’m sure you’ll be bombarded with all the usual mailers and speeches full of buzzwords, perfectly rehearsed talking points, and promises wrapped in shiny packaging. But I’d like to cut to the chase. I’m terrible at "selling myself" that way, and I won’t pretend otherwise. I’ve only got one real selling point: I’m just a regular guy.

That’s it. That’s what I bring to the table. I am like all of you. I’m not a polished politician. I’m not some legacy figure with a long list of public accolades. I’m a 28-year-old born and raised in Lewiston/Sanborn, semi-successful professional actor and DoorDasher. I’m also a comedian and a performer. While I won’t promise to always act “political” or “shiny and polished,” my goal in running for office is very simple. I want to grow, and I want *us* to grow as a community and as neighbors. Like most of you, at times I enjoy a drink, and a puff or two. I’m not trying to sell myself as anything other than who I am. I’m not special. I’m real. Just like you and your families.

And maybe that’s exactly what local government needs right now.

See, at one point in this country’s history, “just some guy” – someone from your own street or block – was the kind of person making decisions on your behalf. That’s what local government should be. Not a stepping stone for higher office. Not a resume builder for political hopefuls. But a place where the people directly affected by decisions actually have a say in them – and where their elected officials *reflect* the values of the community, not some national narrative.

I’m not here with some master plan to “fix everything” – and if you feel lucky enough living in Lewiston that you don’t think anything needs fixing, I’ve got good news and bad news. The bad news perhaps for some? I don’t have a long list of personal initiatives; I don't look to advance mine or someone else's political career by serving you. The good news? I’m not going to weigh this community down with top-down ideas that ignore your voices.

There was a time when politicians listened to laborers, to professionals, to everyday folks who had real experience in their fields. If there’s a fire, I’m going to ask our first responders how to handle it. Lewiston’s lucky to have many of them, and I personally feel a connection to their service. I was a firefighter for a time myself, but I wasn’t able to commit to it the way it deserved. But I watched and still admire those who dedicate their lives to real heroism.

If it’s the weather, I’ll go to farmers and meteorologists. If it's about construction, I’ll go to the folks who’ve built with their own hands. Health care? We’ve got a hospital full of professionals right here. The point is: *You* are the experts. You live it. Why wouldn’t I ask *you* what needs to be done?

So, here’s the plan: I want to open a line of direct communication between you and me. A phone number tied to this campaign’s social media, where you can leave a message, and I promise I’ll personally return each and every call. I want to hear from you – your problems, your hopes, your ideas, your criticisms. You tell me what you need, and that’s what I’ll fight for. You, the public, will be my lobbyist, my puppeteer, my boss.

And that’s not just a slogan. I also plan to hold regular town halls – not just during the campaign, but as long as I serve. These meetings will be open to everyone: Democrats, Republicans, Independents, Greens, Conservatives, Working Families, “Rent is Too Damn High” supporters – you name it. We’ll come together, speak openly, and treat each other with respect, even in disagreement. Free, honest speech. Nonthreatening real civic engagement. That’s what this campaign is built on.

A bit of comparative, historical perspective. In 1476, the Medici family in Italy took action against foreign control over their home. They made sure every town had something of its own to be proud of, something that brought prosperity and independence. They helped restore civic pride, cultural power, and economic freedom – without seceding or rebelling. Just by organizing and believing in themselves.

Lewiston is no different. We can build financial and social independence from the broader dysfunction we see happening across the country. We can still pay our dues to the nation while carving out a space that reflects *us*. We have the population. We have the financial resources. We have the spirit. We just need the *gumption*.

I grew up here. I know what Lewiston has to offer. I’ve seen our potential to become a hub of tourism, food and transport. And yes, there are whispers of tech billionaires taking interest. But they’ll only serve us well if *we* set the terms – if *you* tell *me* what we demand from outside investment to keep our community's beauty intact.

So, if you want change, and if you're tired of politicians acting like nobles without holding court, without being invested in their prime resource – YOU – I invite you to join me. Let’s take our community back.

I am Andrew Zuccari, and I hope to soon serve as one of your Town Council members.