Today, Rachel Ohm reports on how U.S. Rep. Jared Golden’s decision not to seek reelection has complicated Democrats’ 2026 plans. We also have a story on the indictment of a Benton woman on a charge of attempted murder, and a proposal to build a second Skowhegan bridge over the Kennebec River could still be nearly a decade away. Plus, columnist Steve Collins weighs in on Golden’s announcement.
HOUSE RACE SHAKEUP
U.S. Rep. Jared Golden’s surprise decision not to seek reelection next year is shaking up what was expected to be one of 2026’s most competitive House races. The Lewiston Democrat’s decision not to seek a fifth term is likely to give a boost to Republican Paul LePage, but 2026 is also expected to be a strong year for Democrats. Meanwhile, district voters say they were surprised by Golden’s announcement, though they understand the reasons behind his decision. Read more.
ATTEMPTED MURDER INDICTMENT
A Benton woman accused of shooting and injuring a man after he insulted her has been indicted on a charge of attempted murder. Hailie A. Hotham, 21, allegedly shot Izeck Spaulding, 19, also of Benton, in August. Hotham told police she and Spaulding, whom she was dating, had been on an alcohol and cocaine “bender” for several days, according to an affidavit filed by Deputy Chad Webster. Read more.
Skowhegan’s second bridge could be a decade away, state officials say
The latest effort to study a second river crossing downtown began Wednesday night at a packed public information session.
“Yesterday was by far, by far, the worst behavior that I have ever seen. And, you continued to elevate, even though I was trying to get you through the process. But the worst part, sir, was when the marshals were simply asking you to have a seat and step down when they were taking you into custody. As a result of that, sir, officers were injured, and somewhat seriously. I have never seen that in a courtroom until yesterday. That is behavior that is just unacceptable in a courtroom. Unacceptable.”
Chief District Judge Brent Davis, as Daniel Safranec was brought back to court from the Somerset County Jail in Madison.
The judge called the Madison man’s outburst Wednesday the worst courtroom conduct he has ever seen as he ordered him to serve 14 days in jail for contempt. Read more from reporter Jake Freudberg: Courtroom outburst lands shuttered Madison cannabis shop’s owner in jail
TRENDING: TODAY’S TOP GOOGLE SEARCHES IN MAINE
Woodside Elementary School
Marshawn Kneeland
Raiders vs. Broncos
Senators vs. Bruins
Antonio Brown
GTA 6
Nancy Pelosi
MORE NEWS
Augusta food drive volunteers strive to fill need
Local radio stations have hosted the annual Camp Out Hunger Food Drive for seven years.
Federal judge orders Trump administration to fully fund November SNAP benefits
The ruling by District Judge John J. McConnell Jr. in Rhode Island gave the White House a Friday deadline.
Farmers’ Almanac to end publication after 208 years
‘Like losing a cherished friend’: The iconic guide based in Lewiston has provided weather forecasts, gardening tips and old-fashioned advice since 1818.
Police search for Holden teen missing since Sunday
The 17-year-old’s cellphone indicated they were in the Portland area on Sunday, according to police.
Skowhegan field hockey blanks Mt. Ararat to regain Class A North crown
The River Hawks score three times in the second half to earn a trip to the state final.
Revaluation error causes $2.3M budget shortfall in Farmington
The Select Board is pursuing a $10.50 property tax rate and will ask residents at a special town meeting to approve using $700,000 in fund balance.
