House members voted 80-60 against a resolution calling for an impeachment investigation of Shenna Bellows for her decision to bar former President Trump from Maine’s presidential primary ballot.
Randy Billings
Staff Writer
Randy Billings is a government watchdog and political reporter who has been the State House bureau chief since 2021. He was named the Maine Press Association’s Journalist of the Year in 2020. He joined the Press Herald in 2012 as the Portland City Hall reporter, where his beat touched on a wide range of topics, including municipal government, immigration, homelessness, housing and social services. Prior to that, he worked at various weeklies as well as business and arts publications. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maine, Orono. He lives in North Yarmouth with his wife and two children and enjoys the outdoors and playing his upright bass.
Maine lawmakers consider joining effort to work around Electoral College system
The bill would have Maine join a multistate compact pledging electoral votes to the presidential candidate who wins the nationwide popular vote.
Committee backs nominee to lead Maine Army National Guard
The Veterans and Legal Affairs Committee voted 8-3 in favor of recommending the confirmation of retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Diane L. Dunn, who would be the first woman to hold the post.
Expenses on meals, travel and more add up for Maine’s part-time Legislature
Maine’s 186 lawmakers received about $1.7 million in reimbursements during the last legislative session, including $155,000 for the 10 legislative leaders.
Child protection office criticized again in new report as lawmakers take up reforms
Members of the Legislature’s Government Oversight Committee will continue their review of the office and begin discussing possible reforms on Friday.
Republican lawmaker files resolution to impeach Bellows for disqualifying Trump
While impeachment of the secretary of state is highly unlikely, some Republican lawmakers said her decision to keep former president Donald Trump off Maine’s primary ballot has energized Republican voters.
Hundreds rally at Maine State House for stricter gun laws
Some also called for protecting Second Amendment rights as Maine lawmakers returned for a new session that is expected to focus on gun safety in the wake of the mass shooting in Lewiston in October.
Lawmakers propose bills to expand tribal gaming
Lawmakers will hold public hearings Wednesday afternoon on proposals to grant tribes exclusive access to all Internet gambling and to open the door for a tribal casino.
Fire marshal’s office committed ‘flagrant violation’ of union contract, labor board finds
The Maine Labor Relations Board concluded that an unnamed lieutenant in the Fire Marshal’s Office made changes to mileage reimbursements and the way employees swap shifts without going through the collective bargaining process.
State police determine that Bar Harbor death was not suspicious
Police provide few details but say there is no danger to the public.