WATCH: Great debates in Maine politics [video]

With all the talk of debates this year, we thought readers might be interested in watching a collection of previous debates in Maine politics. Check out the “greatest hits” of Maine’s gubernatorial and congressional debates.

Michael Michaud vs. John Frary

No collection of Maine debate clips would be complete without clips from Michaud’s 2008 congressional debate against professor and internationally renowned orator John Frary. The clip was produced by a labor union hack, so it doesn’t show much of Michaud talking. But credit goes to the Michaud for maintaining his composure during this bewildering spectacle of political discourse.

Michael Michaud vs. Jason Levesque

Republican candidate Jason Levesque brutalized Michaud in this October 14, 2010, Maine Public Broadcasting Debate. So much so that many political observers believe that Michaud, despite losing the debate, actually gained ground in sympathy points.

Paul LePage vs. Eliot Cutler vs. Libby Mitchell vs. Kevin Scott vs. Shawn Moody

In this 2010 Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce debate, then-candidate Paul LePage showed the blue-collar, man-of-the-people style that appealed to at least 39 percent of the state. Independent candidate Eliot Cutler, despite the muddying influence of other independent candidates on the stage, showed why he is a feared debater this time around.

Paul LePage vs. Eliot Cutler vs. Libby Mitchell vs. Kevin Scott vs. Shawn Moody (Round 2)

In this WMTW/University of Southern Maine, Cutler shows his ability to deftly criticize his opponents without directly attacking them. With attacks on the status quo, he chides Democrats. With allusions to the “right temperament” he takes a dig at LePage. LePage keeps his focus on Maine’s business climate and his own business credentials. This time around, Cutler may have to me more direct with his criticisms of his opponents, while LePage has a record in government to defend. Check out the second half of this debate to hear Mitchell talk about how she helped right-size state government.

Ethan Strimling for the First Congressional District

Ok, we know Press Herald columnist Ethan Strimling isn’t running for office this year. But this clip from his failed 2008 run for Congress shows that Strimling was spouting the Occupy Wall Street rhetoric way before Zuccotti Park was inundated with unhappy college students.

Editor’s Note: This article includes only those debate footage we can find online. If you’ve got a great Maine debate clip you would like to see included here, post a link in the comment section below or send us an email.