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QUOTE OF THE DAY
— Former Maine Senate President and 2026 candidate for governor Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, speaking at a meet-and-greet attended by nearly all 16 gubernatorial candidates from both major parties and independents Thursday in Waterville.
TODAY’S TOP STORIES
Federal agencies are putting out openly partisan messaging during the government shutdown, which entered its third day Friday. Experts warn that it could undermine public trust.
Acadia National Park will reopen the Summit Road to the top of Cadillac Mountain to vehicle traffic today. If you’re concerned about the impact of the shutdown on federal services, here’s a rundown of what major services are still available.
Nearly all of Maine’s gubernatorial candidates met in the same room Thursday. Rather than causing sparks, the chance to hear from 16 contenders produced a surprisingly cordial atmosphere of stump speeches and moments of agreement.
Houlton officials took no action at a special meeting Thursday about their town manager who is facing criminal charges. Since Cameron Clark’s arrest last week, the Town Council has maintained a neutral stance, citing what they call the personal nature of the alleged crimes.
Penobscot County is bracing for a budget crisis. The soaring cost of the county jail is stressing municipal budgets and could force a higher tax burden onto residents.
Five new interactive kiosks will be installed around Greater Bangor. The touch-screen units will be placed in high-traffic areas to help residents and visitors navigate the area.
NEWS FROM AROUND THE STATE
- No Labels Party withdraws from Maine
- Woman sues Maine State Police alleging excessive force
- Fort Kent sets public hearing date for 75% water rate increase
- Down East construction firm to pay $95K in fines after employee death
- Belfast residents raise safety concerns over planned Congress Street project
- Duck hunter rescued after sinking to waist in Brunswick mudflats
- Man gets 35 years for deadly assault at Maine YMCA
- Belfast’s football team hasn’t won a game in nearly 2 years. Here’s what keeps them playing.
- Cooper Flagg is cover star in new Topps basketball card set
- Basketball fans to get early look at UMaine, Husson men’s teams
- UMaine women’s hockey to take on national champ Wisconsin in homecoming for coach
- Southern Maine getting front row seat to one of college hockey’s best rivalries
MAINE IN PICTURES
FROM THE OPINION PAGES
“Maine’s current law gives family members no way to take direct action themselves when a loved one is in crisis and may pose a threat to themselves or others.”
Opinion: If mental health is the concern, vote yes on Question 2
LIFE IN MAINE
Maine’s plants and wildlife shine in this new book of stunning art and surprising facts.
Extreme drought extends Down East as Maine sees little rainfall.
Guest pianist Jonathan Biss played Brahms’ piano concerto with passion and precision in the Bangor Symphony Orchestra’s season opener, longtime reviewer Judy Harrison writes.
Twenty One Pilots and Dayglow closed out the Bangor concert season Wednesday. Some acts for next year have already been announced.
