BRUNSWICK, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- A day after the major parties set their candidates for the general election, Independent candidate Angus King tried to set the agenda.

At a news conference, King said he sent letters to each of the candidates in the race, asking them to enter into an agreement that they would disavow and discourage any support from Super PACs, independent groups that can raise and spend unlimited money in support of candidates, as long as they do not coordinate with campaigns. 

"I certainly hope that my opponents will join me in taking a stand against what I consider a dire threat to this country and democracy," King said.

King cited a similar agreement between the US Senate candidates in Massachusetts as an example that the plan could work.

Democratic nominee Cynthia Dill said she was considering the agreement, but she wanted to see details.  She said, "It's easier for someone who's a millionaire, who has access to corporate money and PACs to try to put limits on what other people can spend."

She disagreed with King that the top priority in this race should be how to get Congress to work together.  She said, "A top priority of mine is to reduce the amount of money we spend on the military and investing it here at home."

Republican Charlie Summers cancelled his interview with NEWS CENTER.  His campaign sent a statement about King's request that says, in part, "Today's press conference by former Governor King was yet another effort to distract Maine voters from the real issue in this campaign: the economy.  While working Mainers are struggling to find good jobs and take care of their families, Angus King would rather discuss the intricacies of campaign finance.  This is exactly what is wrong with Washington."

The statement goes on to say that Summers will focus his campaign on the issues of reducing government spending, improving the environment for small business, and supporting the armed forces.