Nirav Shah Promises Regular Town Halls, New Transparency Office If Elected

India-West News Desk

AUGUSTA, ME – Dr. Nirav Shah has announced plans to establish an Office of Public Engagement and Transparency and continue holding regular public town halls if elected governor.

The proposal, announced at a town hall event, would make public meetings and feedback channels a formal part of the Governor’s Office.

According to the campaign, the proposed office would coordinate statewide town halls, publish progress dashboards, and oversee systems for public input and follow-through on commitments.

Shah said the plan is intended to improve accessibility, accountability and trust in government.

“Leadership doesn’t stop after Election Day,” Shah said at the event. “If you’re going to ask people for their trust, you have to show up – consistently, openly, and ready to answer tough questions.”

He added that public confidence in government had been affected in recent years and said rebuilding trust would require leaders to show up, listen and follow through.

Shah previously served as director of the Maine CDC, where he held more than 300 public briefings during the COVID-19 pandemic.

His campaign said he has also hosted 15 public town halls across Maine so far, with more planned before the primary election.

The events have addressed issues including affordability, health care, education and economic opportunity.

If implemented, the proposal would provide residents with regular opportunities to engage directly with the governor through both in-person and virtual formats.