AUGUSTA, Maine — Wednesday is shaping up to be a busy day at the State House in Augusta as the 132nd Legislature was sworn-in and the state's constitutional officers will be elected.
For some lawmakers, it's a return to the capitol. For others, it's their first day as an elected representative.
For the Haggan's it's both.
David Haggan, a Republican, served four terms in the House before he hit his term limits. To continue his service, he ran for the state senate and won his election this November. His wife Kimberly, a fellow Republican, ran for his house seat and won her election.
"I never thought of being in the political arena, but watching [David] for eight years inspired me to give it a try. We thought it would be kind of a cool, really crazy retirement plan to see what influence that we can have, that I can have personally at this level. Watching all the things that he has done, it's been pretty impressive," she said.
After more than 30 years as a public school teacher, coach, and volunteer for non-profits, Kimberly ran for public office to fight for public education and to support schools and students. David was also a teacher and coach for more than three decades in Hampden.
"I'm hoping to have an influence on public education in a positive way, and I just love Maine and I want to do what I can do to create a state where our kids can stay here and enjoy the things that I enjoy," Kimberly added.
On the campaign trail this fall, the Haggans said they heard from constituents who were concerned about rising property taxes, housing, and rising energy costs.
Before they get placed on committees and begin debating bills and policy, Wednesday is a chance for the entire Haggan family to go to the State House and meet their new colleagues ahead of the legislative session.
"It's a big thing to come to the capital and to realize that my goodness, I'm really going to serve 1.4 million Mainers," David added. "We've been making a lot of friends over the last several years on both sides of the aisle. It's fun to work with people and come up with good legislation to help."
The two admit they are similar when it comes to their policy stances, though they disclosed that they may not always see eye-to-eye when it comes to the policy of household chores.
The Haggans will spend the rest of Wednesday meeting fellow legislators as they prepare for their next chapter of service.