The administration’s threats set the stage for an unusual testing of the federal law that could take months or years to resolve.
Rachel Ohm
Staff Writer
Rachel covers state government and politics for the Portland Press Herald. It’s her third beat at the paper after stints covering City Hall and education. Prior to her arrival at the Press Herald in the summer of 2019, Rachel worked at the Morning Sentinel in Waterville, covering Franklin and Somerset counties, and the Knoxville News Sentinel in Knoxville, Tennessee, covering higher education. She has a master’s degree in journalism from New York University and when she’s not writing and reporting enjoys running, cooking and traveling to new places.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Transgender rights debate takes shape in Legislature as Maine faces federal pressure
Rep. Elizabeth Caruso, R-Caratunk, gathered with supporters at the State House Wednesday to unveil a bill prohibiting students who are biologically male from participating in female sports.
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Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Maine lawmaker censured for posting photos of student she identified as transgender
The House votes 75-70 along party lines to censure Republican Rep. Laurel Libby for singling out a student who won a track championship to protest Maine’s policy allowing transgender athletes to participate in girls’ sports.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Will Mills’ confrontation with Trump be a prologue for a US Senate campaign?
The governor’s exchange with President Trump over transgender rights last week elevated her national profile, with one political scientist saying it could push her to run for U.S. Senate in 2026.
Posted inPolitics
Q&A: Can Trump withhold federal funds? Do other states allow transgender athletes to play school sports?
Here are a few things to know about Maine’s policy on transgender athletes and President Trump’s threat to withhold federal funds if the state doesn’t make changes.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics, Sports
Trump administration orders investigation after Gov. Mills publicly defies president over transgender policy
‘See you in court,’ Gov. Janet Mills told President Donald Trump during a heated exchange at an assembly of governors at the White House.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Swatting of Maine secretary of state was part of broader attack on U.S. officials
Two European men have been charged with federal crimes in connection with swatting attempts involving about 100 victims, including Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Maine lawmaker takes heat for posting photos of student athlete she identifies as transgender
Rep. Laurel Libby said she does not plan to take down her Facebook post, despite a request from the Maine House speaker, who said children should not be ‘used to score political points.’
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Referendum to require voter ID and tighten absentee voting rules qualifies for November ballot
The proposal also would eliminate ongoing absentee voting and place limits on the use of and number of absentee ballot drop boxes, among other things.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, News
Maine’s longtime marine resources commissioner is stepping down
Patrick Keliher, who has served in the position since 2012, is the longest-serving commissioner in the history of the Department of Marine Resources. He will retire March 14.