Calais residents ready for Clinton-Trump election debate
The first of three presidential election debates in the United States begins at 10 p.m. AT Monday and across the New Brunswick-Maine border in Calais, Americans say they'll be watching.
"I think people will be watching, not only in Maine but across the country," said Michael Brown, a retired college professor.
"We'll be watching to see who makes the biggest faux pas," said Bob Fraser of Massachusetts, who was visiting Maine on Monday.
Approval ratings are low in Maine for both Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton and Republican nominee Donald Trump.
"It kind of ruins a perfectly good breakfast thinking about the candidates," said Fraser. "Neither one of them is great.
"I can't vote for the Donald. He's a buffoon," said Fraser. "He puts his foot in this mouth every time he opens it.
"Hillary has a mountain of experience but I'm not thrilled with her either."
Maine's electoral college votes have gone to the Democratic Party candidate in every election since 1996.
Brown thinks the debates could make a difference come voting day.
"I think there is a chance for the debate to affect how people are going to go," he said.
Historically, that has been true. Debates have had an impact.
"I wouldn't be surprised if Maine scrambled from what is being reported in the polls," said Brown.
"Trump could seriously alienate some of his base people. So could Hillary. That may be the reason for the high audience."
Anna Stevens doesn't have a television but will be listening to the debate on the radio.
"I'm voting for Trump," she said with a laugh. "I want something different than what we've been having for the last eight years.
"He appeals to me and I am definitely voting against the Democrats," she said.
"I'll be listening for the sheer fun of it. Trump is very entertaining and after the last eight years, we need a little entertainment and humour."
Vietnam war veteran Gary Young, who has been living in Maine for 15 years, is also backing Trump.
"I am sick and tired of the way things are going in this country. All the liberals. It's pitiful. We need change," he said. "With Donald Trump, the only reason I'm voting for him is that he stands up for his rights. He stands up for our rights"
Young says his vote is a vote against Clinton.
"Neither one are much to vote for," he said. "This country's in trouble."
