about Janel

Hi, I’m Janel.  I’m an Aroostook County native and lifelong resident…

100% a real mom to two young adults, nana to one-and the second arriving soon, a wife, a daughter and grand daughter, and a social worker by profession. 

That puts me at about 0% politician. If you know me, you know. 

So then, what’s my why? 

I’ve rooted my life in Presque Isle to preserve the richness of being active in an intergenerational family. I understand the challenges facing my family, friends, and neighbors from firsthand experience. Meeting human needs and treating people with dignity and respect…that’s what it’s about for me…not political affiliations or advancement. 


I’ve been a social worker for 18 years. I see the daily needs and challenges present in rural Maine, I understand social policy, and I want to help shape improvements to the policies that are failing us. Issues are not faceless to me. I know what it means to show up, work hard, and deliver.

These struggles are ours to improve!

  • Childcare
  • Healthcare
  • Senior Care
  • Housing
  • Heating
  • Access to Food
  • Climate
  • Mental Health

A primary family value I saw in practice during my childhood is that when you see someone in need you step up and help. I know this is a deeply held Maine value. We step up to help our neighbor, no matter what. It’s not always easy, pretty, or convenient. We aren’t always the same, but we still help. 


The desire to help struggling people be able to thrive has been the calling of my life. In this moment that has become a call to seek to listen and serve in a new way by running for office. 


So that’s why I’m here. To step up, to hear you, and to seek solutions to help my neighbors out. I hope we can work towards a better future together!