Q-POINT
Q-Point Podcast, hosted by Corenna and David Quirk, is a nonpartisan platform for candid conversations with policymakers, public officials, and changemakers shaping Maine and the nation. We go beyond the headlines, diving deep into policy discussions, current events, personal journeys, proposed legislation, and leadership philosophies. From community leaders to government officials and business executives, our guests share their insights, experiences, and perspectives on the issues that matter most.
Guests have included former Maine Governor Paul LePage, Congressman Jared Golden, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, and Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows as well as several Gubernatorial and Congressional Candidates - to name a few. Focused on substance over soundbites, Q‑Point explores the real-world impact of legislative decisions, oversight, and public policy.
Broadcast statewide weekend mornings on VOM Radio (101.3, 103.9, or stream from anywhere on the VOM App). Available anytime at QPointPodcast.com or on all major streaming platforms.
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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of the information presented is made by your use. The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility. Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission. The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein. This podcast does not endorse candidates nor should any episode be considered an endorsement.
Q-POINT
“You Can’t Subsidize Your Way to 80,000 Houses” — Rick Bennett on Maine’s Housing Crisis
Maine State Senator and independent gubernatorial candidate Rick Bennett explains why he left the GOP and why party structures have become an obstacle to real solutions. He says the parties have become a “net negative” and argues for a new path built on cross-partisanship, compromise, and transparency.
Bennett outlines three top priorities if elected governor: housing, energy, and schools. On housing, he highlights a shortfall of 80,000 homes by 2030 and warns, “You can’t subsidize your way to 80,000 houses.” He calls for cutting unnecessary regulations and enabling more compact, affordable development.
He also critiques Maine’s partisan budget process as “performative” and says the Legislature no longer fully reviews the state budget. He proposes flipping hearings to prioritize public testimony, rebalancing the state’s over-reliance on property taxes, and properly funding and expanding the Homestead Exemption, especially for seniors.
🌿 Cannabis Policy — He raises concerns about illegal marijuana grows worsening Maine’s housing crisis and undercutting legal businesses. Bennett questions the management of the Office of Cannabis Policy, saying it needs “a good house cleaning.”
📅 Q-Point Podcast airs weekends on VOM – Voice of Maine (101.3 / 103.9) at 6:00 AM Saturdays and 6:30 AM Sundays, or listen live on the VOM app.
🎧 Episodes are also available anytime at QPointPodcast.com or on your favorite podcast app.
Disclosure: This episode of Q-Point Podcast is prerecorded, produced, and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience. The views and opinions expressed are those of the guests and do not necessarily represent those of the hosts, Q-Point Podcast associates, or affiliates.
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of the information presented is made by your use. The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility. Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission. The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.