"JUST THE FACTS"
SUSAN COLLINS ON IRAQ: FIVE YEARS AFTER PRESIDENT BUSH DECLARED "MISSION ACCOMPLISHED"
From the Maine Democratic Party
Thursday, May 1, 2008, marks the 5th anniversary of George W. Bush's misguided "Mission Accomplished" speech.
Remember, Senator Susan Collins has supported President Bush's war and his policies from the beginning. Five years later, she still supports an open-ended commitment in Iraq.
Susan Collins Voted To Block Iraq Withdrawal Legislation. In 2007, Sen. Collins voted against legislation that would set a deadline to begin withdrawing U.S. troops from Iraq. [HR 1585, Vote #346, 9/21/07]
Susan Collins Endorses Plan To Merely Move Troops Around. In 2007, Sen. Collins continued to endorse her plan to merely shift the mission of troops in Iraq instead of bring them home. "I continue to believe that the proposal that Senator Ben Nelson and I have advocated, which would transition our troops out of most combat roles and instead focus on counter-terrorism operations, border security, training and equipping Iraqi troops, and protecting Americans, is the right strategy at this time." [Statement of Senator Susan Collins, 9/11/07]
Susan Collins Said She Opposed Beginning To Withdraw Troops Within 120 Days. In 2007, Susan Collins said she opposed the 2007 Supplemental Funding bill for Iraq because it would begin to withdraw troops within 120 days. "Ms. Collins said she was more troubled by the requirement that the administration begin removing troops within 120 days of the legislation rather than the March 2008 deadline for having most of the military out." [New York Times, 3/28/07]
Susan Collins Voted To Authorize The War In Iraq. In October 2002, Sen. Collins voted to authorize the use of force against Iraq. [Vote #237, 10/11/02]
Susan Collins Voted Against Withdrawing U.S. Troops. In 2007, Sen. Collins voted three times against setting a goal of withdrawing most American troops from Iraq by March 31, 2008, with the redeployment beginning within months. [Vote #126, 3/29/07; Vote #116, 3/27/07; Vote #75, 3/15/07]
Susan Collins Wanted to "Stay the Course" In Iraq. In late 2003, Sen. Collins said, "it's important that we hold the line in Iraq and that we stay the course..." [CNBC, 11/6/03]
Susan Collins Defended Her Vote to Go to War. After her July 2003 trip to Iraq, Sen. Collins said, "Going there helped further convince me that I made the right decision in my vote." [Portland Press Herald, 7/4/03]
Susan Collins Said Bush Made "A Compelling Case" For War With Iraq. In September 2002, Sen. Collins said, "The Administration, particularly in the last two weeks, has made a compelling case that Iraq does pose a serious threat to our security." [ABC, 9/20/02]
Susan Collins Said Morale Was High in Iraq. After returning from Iraq in July 2003, Sen. Collins said, "we talked to American troops and British troops all over the country, and I found that morale was very high. I was surprised, because, obviously it's very dangerous conditions, and our soldiers are serving with considerable hardship. Obviously, our soldiers are eager to come home, but I found them very committed to the mission." [CNN, "American Morning," 7/7/03]
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"JUST THE FACTS"
SUSAN COLLINS ON ENERGY: She now says v. her actual record
From the Maine Democratic Party
During a recent speech on the Senate floor (4/22/08), Susan Collins contradicted her record of consistently standing up for Big Oil as their profits continued to hit records and Mainers suffered.
We thought you would find these points from her floor speech and her actual record interesting:
She now says:
"...in these times of high energy prices, we must rally around a national effort to achieve energy independence. We should establish a bold goal of energy independence by the year 2020. It is vital to our economic, environmental and national security."
Her record is:
Susan Collins joined Republicans to kill an amendment that set a similar national goal to reduce America's dependence on foreign oil by 2025 [Vote 140, 6/16/05]. The bill merely set goals for reducing dependence on foreign oil rather than implementing a hard requirement, yet Susan Collins still voted against the amendment.
Conversely, Senator Snowe supported this move towards energy independence.
She now says:
Curtail tax breaks for major oil industry companies and direct funds to consumers and alternative energy.
"With net profits of a single oil company reaching almost 10 billion dollars in a single quarter, we should not expect taxpayers struggling to pay their bills to continue to subsidize the oil and gas industry. Congress should repeal unnecessary tax breaks for big oil companies and use the billions of dollars instead to fund the remaining proposals in my 10-Point Energy Plan."
Her record is:
Susan Collins voted twice for the disastrous 2005 Cheney Energy Bill that gave $14 billion to Big Oil during times of record profits [Vote 212, 7/29/05; Vote 213, 7/29/05]. The final version of the bill failed to reduce our nation's dependence on oil or provide relief to consumers, and added billions of dollars in irresponsible subsidies for coal, oil and nuclear power. The League of Conservation Voters called the Energy bill the "most anti-environment bill signed into law in recent memory." [LCV Scorecard 2005, www.lcv.org]
Susan Collins and Senate Republicans voted against an effort to curb the record-making profits of Big Oil while Mainers were struggling to pay for fuel. Susan Collins even opposed a windfall profits tax on oil companies that redirected the funds to struggling American consumers. In 2005, Susan Collins voted against an amendment that would impose a temporary windfall profit tax on crude oil and rebate the tax collected back to the American consumer. [S2020, Vote 331, 11/17/05; Vote 341, 11/17/05]
She now says:
Invest in cellulosic ethanol and renewable fuels.
Promote tidal, geothermal, solar and wind energy.
Her record is:
Susan Collins rejected efforts to invest in renewable energy technologies. In 2001, Susan Collins and Senate Republicans rejected an amendment to establish tax credits for investments in renewable energy technologies [Vote 125, 5/21/01]. Collins voted against these incentives even as our country must increase our energy efficiency to be less dependent on foreign oil.
She now says:
Improve vehicle efficiency and alternatives to gasoline.
Her record is:
Susan Collins voted for the Energy Bill that did not have conservation Measures for Higher Mileage Vehicles. In July 2005, according to the Portland Press Herald, "But the bill also didn't call for conservation measures such as higher mileage for light trucks such as sport-utility vehicles and minivans. So the only limit on motoring those gas guzzlers onto the open road will be the costliness of the pit stops. ...The Senate voted 74-26, with Snowe and Collins, both Republicans, in favor." [Portland Press Herald, 7/31/05]
Susan Collins voted to delay the renewable fuels mandate. In 2002, Susan Collins voted for an effort to delay the renewable fuels mandate, which would require an increasing amount of renewable fuel, including ethanol and biodiesel, to be blended into motor vehicle fuel sold in the United States. [Vote 88, 4/25/02]
Susan Collins voted against renewable fuel requirements. In April 2004, Susan Collins voted against requiring that gasoline sold or introduced into the United States contain renewable fuel in specific amounts, beginning with 3.1 billion gallons in 2005 and increasing each year to 5 billion gallons in 2012. [S 150, 4/29/04, #73]
While Big Oil continues to reap record profits, Maine fuel prices are:
Reg Unl Diesel
Bangor $3.552 $4.338
Portland $3.518 $4.332
Lewiston $3.551 $4.382
(Source: Fuel Gauge Report, April 24, 2008 http://www.fuelgaugereport.com/MEmetro.asp
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latest news & Announcements
MAINE DEMOCRATIC PARTY ANNOUNCES FIELD TEAM FOR VICTORY 2008
March 20, 2008
Maine Democratic Party Release
AUGUSTA - Victory 2008, the coordinated campaign for the Maine Democratic Party, will wage an aggressive field effort with a team of 14, it was announced today.
Victory 2008 Campaign Manager Peter Chandler said the campaign will focus on the grassroots. "Maine voters are hungry for change, and we're going to reach out to them in every town in Maine to make sure they get it," he said.
Chandler announced the following team to lead the field campaign:
Mark Henson - Statewide Field Director
Henson has established a reputation for success in rural state Democratic politics. Prior to coming to Maine, he served as the regional field director for the northern half of New Hampshire for the Edwards for President Campaign. He has also organized for progressive candidates and causes in southern Minnesota, southern California and the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. Henson first decided to work in grassroots politics after volunteering for the last week of the 2002 election to boost turnout on South Dakota's Rosebud Sioux Native American reservation for Senator Tim Johnson's re-election, ultimately winning the race by 527 votes. He received his B.A. in Government from Claremont McKenna College in 2004. When not plotting out ways to expand the map for Democrats, you can find Henson kayaking on a lake, hiking in the woods, or enjoying a drink with friends at a cozy coffeehouse.
Brandon Maheu - Field Director, 1st Congressional District
Born and raised in Fairfield, Maine, he has been working for the past two years in Maine as Democratic National Committee State Partnership Program staff as part of the "50-State Strategy." Prior to working for MDP, Maheu has worked on a number of campaigns in Maine including No on 1: Maine Won't Discriminate, Maine Victory 2004, and Dean for America. While attending UMaine Farmington, he served as President of the College Democrats, Vice President of the Maine College Democrats, and member of the Maine Democratic State Committee. He also has seen success as a coach, having led high school Cross Country teams in Maine to both regional and state championships. Maheu resides in Gardiner.
Phil Bailey- Field Director, 2nd Congressional District
Largely raised in Hancock, Maine, he brings various skills from field organizing through fundraising and candidate recruitment to the campaign. He has worked as the Rural Field Director for Governor Roy Romer (CO), two coordinated campaigns as well as Local County organizing work in Maine. Prior to working for MDP, Phil worked as the Director of Market Development for the National Recycling Coalition, several years as an environmental consultant and prior to joining MDP in September 2007 he was the lead fundraiser for Sustainable Harvest International.
Matt Grill - Regional Field Director, Cumberland County
Before coming to Maine, Grill was a coordinator with the Citizens' Campaign, a good government and citizen engagement organization in New Jersey. More recently, he brought his passion for progressive politics to his role as an organizer for the John Edwards for President campaign in New Hampshire, South Carolina and Georgia. Grill received a B.A. from Clark University in American Government in 2005.
Lydia Blume - Regional Field Director, York County
For the past few years, Blume has been Director of the Seacoast Democrats, a regional collaboration of the Democratic committees in southern York County and managed State Sen. Peter Bowman's successful campaign in 2006. Prior to focusing on Democratic politics, she spent six years as NE Regional Sales and Marketing Manager for an environmental data management software and services company. Blume received a B.A. in Geography from Boston University 1984.
Jonathan Hillier - Regional Field Director, Kennebec County
Hillier was born in Winthrop and grew up in Monmouth, Maine. He attended Monmouth Academy, graduating in 1999, after which he was enrolled at the University of Maine, where he earned a degree in history with a minor in political science. Since then he has worked in several fields including real estate, consulting, farming and campaigning. Hillier likes the outdoors and enjoys cross-country skiing, cycling, hiking, and sailing.
Helena Herring - Regional Field Director, Lincoln & Sagadahoc Counties
Herring grew up in Jesup, a rural community in Southeast Georgia. After graduating from the public school system in Georgia, she went to Yale, where she was a student organizer around economic and social justice issues. She continued her commitment to social justice by working for the John Edwards for President campaign in New Hampshire, South Carolina and Georgia.
Christopher Appel - Regional Field Director, Knox County
Originally from Ellicott City, MD, Appel recently graduated from Colby College. During college, he spent two summers working at the Securities and Exchange Commission and served as the Vice President of the Maine College Democrats in 2007. An avid runner, Appel was a four-year varsity runner for the Colby Cross Country and Track & Field Teams. He was the captain of the 2008 Men's Indoor Track Team.
Jeralyn Cave- Regional Field Director, Aroostook & Washington Counties
Cave was a field coordinator with Sen. Clinton's campaign in Iowa. In 2006 she worked with an EMILY'S list 527 to elect Amy Klobuchar as Minnesota's newest U.S. Senator. In 2007 she worked with the Virginia Coordinated Campaign where they flipped the State Senate and made gains in the House of Delegates. Cave graduated from the University of Pittsburgh, summa cum laude in 2006.
Michelle Beaudin- Regional Field Director, Franklin & Oxford Counties
Beaudin's strong belief in protecting the environment and health care for everyone led her to begin volunteering for the Edwards campaign in New Hampshire. She soon took over the field organization of the northern part of her county. Beaudin graduated from The George Washington University with a BA in Political Science. While at GW, she studied abroad in Dakar, Senegal and Paris, France.
Tansey Helmke- Regional Field Director, Piscataquis & Somerset County
Helmke has lived in Maine since she was 14 years old. Since then, she's worked for the Maine People's Alliance as a canvasser and as the Field Organizing Director in the Portland office. She volunteered on Hillary Clinton's 2000 Senate campaign. She's also done volunteer work for Chellie Pingree, the Kerry/Edwards campaign and various local issues. In 2006 she worked as a Deputy Campaign Manager in a race for the Maine State Senate. She is a Cultural Anthropology major who is taking a semester off from college.
Heather Martin-Zboray- Regional Field Director, Hancock & Waldo Counties
Martin-Zboray has served as the Coordinator for the Hancock County Democratic Committee since 2004. Heather has managed several campaigns in Maine including the re-election of State Sen. Dennis Damon and the Hancock County campaign for Maine Won't Discriminate ('05). Prior to her work for the party, she worked for several non-profits and social welfare agencies in her community. She graduated from College of the Atlantic with her degree in Human Ecology.
Nathan Libby- Regional Field Director, Androscoggin County
Libby is a graduate of Skowhegan Area High School and Bates College. At Bates, he conducted original research and translation of a rare French version of Thomas Paine's "The Age of Reason" for his senior thesis. Also while there, he worked as a master carpenter for the Bates Theatre Department. Since joining the MDP last summer, Libby has been the RFD for Kennebec, Knox & Waldo Counties. He helped organize ID calls for a special election in HD 83 and GOTV for five special election races. He enjoys history, travel, carpentry, cycling, sailing, and the state of Maine.
Katelyn Hartford-Regional Field Director, Penobscot County
A ninth generation Mainer, Hartford is passionate about the future of this state. She is a graduate of Skowhegan Area High School and the University of Maine. While at UMaine she worked as a research assistant where she created a web-based survey used to develop an understanding of how to improve natural resource agencies' public involvement strategies and increase trust from local rural communities. Joining the MDP in November 2007, her first task was to help organize GOTV efforts for a special election in Piscataquis county while recruiting volunteers in Penobscot. She has helped recruit legislative candidates and increased Precinct Leaders in her counties. She loves traveling and any activity that requires being outside, especially skiing and hiking.
Not Even a Blizzard Can Stop Maine Democrats
February 11, 2008
Fellow Democrat,
Wow! As I traveled around the state yesterday greeting attendees at caucus sites, that's the word that I found myself continuing to say out loud as I witnessed town after town shattering turnout records. Not only did we show up, but we sent a message to the rest of the country that Maine Democrats are willing to take the lead when it comes to energy and hope for the future of this country.
I just can't tell you how proud I was to see so many fellow Mainers come out on a cold, snowy day to participate and make a clear statement that we're tired of outdated Republican policies. Policies that have gotten us bogged down in a war without a clear exit strategy. Policies that have forced millions of Americans to live without health insurance. Policies that support big oil executives instead of alternative sources of energy which by the way would create new, high paying jobs.
I wanted to share with you a few numbers from Sunday that illustrate just how passionate we all are for change in this country:
- 5,000 - Approximate number of attendees at Republican caucus
- 45,000 - Approximate number of attendees at Democrat caucus
- 28,000 - Number exceeding previous record turnout of 2004
Again, thank you so much for your enthusiasm and dedication to this process. As we look towards the next few weeks and months, there's lots of work to do and I look forward to working with you so that on November 4th, when all the ballots have been cast, we can stand up in unity and claim victory for all Americans.
Sincerely,
Arden ManningExecutive Director
Maine Democratic Party
Historic Turnout at Maine's Democratic Caucus
February 10, 2008
Maine Democratic Party Release
AUGUSTA - Sunday, across the State of Maine, voters weathered the sometimes stormy conditions to attend their local Democratic caucus. With more than 99% of precincts reporting, nearly 45,000 Mainers participated, giving Barack Obama 59%, 40% to Hillary Clinton and 1% remaining uncommitted. It is projected that 15 of Maine's national delegates will go to Obama and 9 to Clinton.
"Around the country we've seen high Democratic turnout and Maine has joined the chorus of other voices across the nation calling for change," said Arden Manning, Executive Director of the Maine Democratic Party. "The numbers tell a story here. Earlier this month, 5,000 Republicans gathered around the state to caucus for their nominee. Today, close to 45,000 Mainers attended the Democratic caucus. The message is clear: Mainers have seen what 8 years of Republican control looks like and they are ready for a change."
Illinois Senator Barack Obama added Maine to his list of victories this weekend. Manning said "I think his victory in Maine this weekend will provide Senator Obama with momentum going forward. However, this campaign is far from over. Barack Obama ran an aggressive grassroots campaign in all corners of the state and that is the right kind of campaign to run if you want to win in Maine."
Following Obama's win in Maine, state Democratic Party chairman John Knutson announced that he has pledged his vote as a super delegate to Barack Obama, true to a promise he made earlier this week to mirror Maine's support.
Manning concluded, "From the caucus goers who had to drive miles on snowy roads to those who waited patiently in line in freezing temperatures; today we saw the dedication and passion of Maine people. Regardless of who the nominee is, today's results show Maine's devotion to the ideals and values of the Democratic Party."
Party Chairman John Knutson Announces his Choice for President
February 7, 2008
Maine Democratic Party Release
AUGUSTA - This Sunday, Democrats all over Maine will participate in the Maine Democratic Party Caucus and choose who they want to nominate as this year's Democratic presidential candidate. The results of the caucus will determine how Maine's 24 Delegates to the Democratic National Convention are allocated. Above and beyond the state delegates, who are allocated through the caucus and State Convention, Maine also has 10 unpledged delegates, called "Super-Delegates," who are able to support any candidate they choose.
These "Super-Delegates" are made up of elected officials like our Governor and two Congressmen, as well as party leaders like John Knutson, who is Chair of the Maine Democratic Party.
On Thursday, Knutson announced that he will support the candidate who wins the majority of the vote in Maine. "For all intents and purposes, Maine now has 25 delegates up for grabs since I will be embracing the candidate who wins Maine's caucuses," said Knutson. As a Super-Delegate, Knutson will represent this winning candidate at the Democratic National Convention.
Knutson continued, "I see this as a way to further empower Democrats across the state of Maine and make the results of our caucus more influential. It is clear that this Presidential campaign will come down to a race for delegates, and I believe that by pledging to support the winner of Maine's caucuses, I will help to increase Maine's importance in the nomination process."
SUPER TUESDAY TOSSUP MEANS MAINE'S 24 DELEGATES CRUCIAL
RECORD PARTICIPATION IN ABSENTEE BALLOTS
February 6, 2008
Maine Democratic Party Release
AUGUSTA - The old saying "As Maine goes, so goes the nation" may never be truer than the 2008 presidential elections, and Maine Democrats have the perfect opportunity to make a difference in caucuses this Sunday.
"Maine's Democratic caucus is the only presidential activity in the nation on Sunday, Feb. 10, meaning Mainers will play a crucial role in this year's nominating process," said Maine Democratic Party Executive Director Arden Manning.
"Super Tuesday's results of a dead heat between Senators Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama mean Maine Democrats have more power than we have had in a long time in terms of choosing a nominee," Manning said. "Maine's 24 delegates are up for grabs and in this environment they will be crucial to the candidates."
"The Maine Democratic Party has processed more than 5,500 absentee ballots, boding well for record participation," Manning said. The deadline to submit absentee ballots is today at 5 p.m.
"We have already processed more in absentee ballots than the Republicans had cast during their three day caucuses. That clearly shows that Maine Democrats are energized and ready to help bring the change all of America craves," he added.
"Based on the interest shown by Maine Democrats - as well as the Independents and Republicans who have recently registered as Democrats - we believe we'll have record turnout at caucuses across the state on Sunday."
Caucuses will be held in 420 towns, cities and plantations and will be located in 372 sites across the state. To check your local caucus sites, go to www.mainedems.org.
420 Towns, 372 Unique Locations and 4,000 Absentee Ballots Processed
MAINE DEMS PREPARE FOR CAUCUS
February 2, 2008
Maine Democratic Party Release
AUGUSTA- Saturday, while Republicans cast their vote in straw polls in barely over 100 locations around the State, the Maine Democratic Party released preliminary absentee ballot numbers. As of 5:45PM, the Maine Democratic Party has already processed 4,100 absentee ballot requests.
"Over 4,000 Maine Democrats have already requested their absentee ballot for Maine's Democratic Caucuses and there are still a few days left for people to request to vote absentee," said Arden Manning, executive director of the Maine Democratic Party. Absentee ballots must be returned by 5PM on Wednesday in order to be counted in Maine's binding Democratic caucus.
On Sunday, February 10, there are 420 cities, towns and plantations caucusing in 372 unique locations. "This is an unprecedented level of local enthusiasm and is representative of the Democratic Party's broad appeal," said Manning. "We are expecting a record breaking turnout for this year's Democratic Caucus. Americans are tired of the direction the Bush/Cheney administration has taken this country in the last eight years and they are ready for a change."
Manning commented on the projected Republican turnout, "Currently, it looks like the number of Maine Democrats who are caucusing by absentee ballot alone outnumbers the projected number of Republicans who showed up for today's Republican straw poll. The higher level of interest in the Democratic Caucus demonstrates not only the broad appeal of the Maine Democratic Party and its candidates, but more importantly it reflects the work of hundreds of Democratic volunteers across the state whose hard work will craft Democratic success in November."
Maine Democrats to Caucus on Feb 10
Dems launch Caucus Absentee Ballot Program
January 3, 2008
Maine Democratic Party Release
AUGUSTA-The Maine Democratic Party today focused its efforts on reaching voters who may not be able to attend the Party's February 10th Caucus , letting them know that there is no reason for them to miss their opportunity to participate in the caucus process.
Maine Democrats who are unable to attend their local caucus for any reason may request absentee ballots from the State Party headquarters. Absentee caucus ballots must be returned to the Maine Democratic Party no later than February 6.
"Many people don't realize that they may participate in the Maine Democratic Caucus even if they are unable to attend the actual caucus," said Maine Democratic Party Chair John Knutson. "We believe it is critically important to make it as simple as possible for Maine Democrats to participate in the caucus process."
Knutson believes this flexibility will make it easier for students, seniors, shift-workers, working mothers and others who find the caucus times inconvenient to participate in Maine's Democratic Caucus.
"We hope that getting out the message about caucus participation from home will enable more people to make their voices heard on February 10th," continued Knutson. "It is central to the values of the Democratic Party that we ensure that as many people as possible are able to freely exercise their right to take part in our caucus, not just those who can attend."
Democrats interested in voting absentee must request ballots from the Maine Democratic Party office at (207) 622-6233 or online at www.mainedems.org/caucus08.aspx Republicans and Greens who wish to participate in the Democratic Caucus either via absentee or in person must register as Democrats no later than January 26. Independents and unregistered voters may register as Democrats anytime prior to the Caucus or at the Caucus on February 10th.
MICHAUD CHIEF OF STAFF PETER CHANDLER TO MANAGE MAINE DEMOCRATIC PARTY COORDINATED CAMPAIGN IN '08
November 13, 2007
Maine Democratic Party Release
AUGUSTA - Peter Chandler, Chief of Staff to Congressman Michael Michaud, will direct the Maine Democratic Coordinated Campaign beginning January 1, 2008. Chandler is taking a one-year leave of absence from his position with Congressman Michaud, for whom he directs operations for the Washington, D.C. office as well as the four district offices in Maine.
"Peter Chandler's skills and knowledge of Maine will enhance our overall party efforts for the '08 elections," said Maine Democratic Party Chairman John Knutson. "Peter's strong record of winning in this state will help elect Tom Allen to the U.S. Senate, re-elect Mike Michaud, broaden our margins in the State House and Senate and bolster our party organization. We are very excited to have him leading the team."
Chandler said, "I am excited to return to Maine full time to help elect Democrats all across my home state. I grew up in Biddeford, attended public schools and worked through the difficult challenges of financing a college education. I think that has shaped my belief that Democrats offer the best hope for hard-working Maine families."
Prior to joining Congressman Michaud's office four years ago, Chandler served for six years as a staff member in the Maine State Senate, the last four as Chief of Staff to the President of the Senate. Additionally, he managed several political campaigns in Maine including the Maine State Senate Democrats' successful return to the majority in 1996. As a consultant to the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee in 1998, he helped the New Hampshire Senate Democratic Caucus win back a majority for the first time since 1912.
Chandler graduated with highest honors from Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT and is a resident of Portland.
maine gop praises maine dems
November 8, 2007
By Francis X. Quinn, Associated Press
AUGUSTA — Maine Democrats increased their majority in the state House of Representatives by one on Election Day, as they won three out of five contests to fill vacancies resulting from resignations and deaths.
The results brought the Democratic numerical roster to 90 in the 151-seat House, leaving Republicans with 59. There are two House independents.
"It's been more than 10 years since a single political party held 90 seats in the Maine House of Representatives," said House Speaker Glenn Cummings, D-Portland. "We're very proud of all of our candidates."
Maine Republican Party Executive Director Julie O'Brien said the outcome should serve as "a wake-up call" for Republicans.
According to unofficial returns, Democrat Mike Carey defeated Republican David Hughes in District 72, which includes part of Democratic-leaning Lewiston.
In District 83, which includes Belgrade and Vienna, Democrat Patricia Jones of Mount Vernon beat Republican Clyde Dyar, also of Mount Vernon. Democrat Sheryl Briggs of Mexico beat Republican Katherine Harvey of Dixfield in District 93, which includes Canton, Carthage and Peru, unofficial returns show.
Briggs' victory in the district previously represented by Republican Randy Hotham gave Democrats their pickup.
Jones will succeed her late husband.
Maintaining a GOP hold on two seats, Republican Ralph Sarty Jr. beat Democrat Kate Smith in District 99, which includes Baldwin, Cornish and Sebago, and Republican Peter Johnson of Greenville won a three-way race in District 27, which includes the towns of Brownville and Monson.
The five special elections resulted from three resignations and two deaths. Three of the seats had been held by Republicans, two by Democrats.
"We're all excited for Mike, Pat and Sheryl to join our caucus. ... They will all make fantastic legislators, and I'm looking forward to getting down to work with all of them in January," House Majority Leader Hannah Pingree, D-North Haven, said in a statement.
O'Brien said the Republican loss in District 93 occurred in an area favorable for Democrats and where Hotham's success as a GOP candidate had been "kind of an anomaly."
More generally, she said, "Democrats do very, very well at mobilizing volunteers, getting out the vote ... To be honest, Republicans need to take a lesson from that."
A year ago, statewide voters put 88 Democrats and 61 Republicans in the House, along with two independents.
Lawmakers are scheduled to reconvene in January for the 2008 regular legislative session.
Statewide, a legislative initiative to ease restrictions on consecutive service in office by members of the House and Senate was overwhelmingly rejected by voters.
voters elect democrats in three of five special election races
November 6, 2007
Maine Democratic Party Release
AUGUSTA - Maine Democrats tonight are celebrating victories in three of the five special election races to fill seats in the Maine House of Representatives. Democrats came out on top in House Districts 72, 83 and 99, according to preliminary election results, increasing the Democratic majority in the House to 90 seats. Republicans currently hold 59 seats and two members of the House are unenrolled.
"Democrats in Maine have much to celebrate tonight," said Maine Democratic Party Chairman John Knutson. "We are very proud of our candidates for all their hard work and are looking forward to watching Mike, Pat and Sheryl accomplish great things in the legislature. The voters in these districts have spoken: Democratic values are indeed Maine values."
"We also join our candidates in thanking the volunteers who helped make these victories possible. The tremendous outpouring of support for these candidates is a testament to the strong grassroots organization in our Party today."
Democratic leadership in the House also commented on tonights elections.
"It's been more than 10 years since a single political party held 90 seats in the Maine House of Representatives," said Speaker of the House Glenn Cummings, D-Portland. "We're very proud of all of our candidates. They all worked extremely hard and were dedicated to their campaigns."
"We're all excited for Mike, Pat and Sheryl to join our caucus," said House Majority Leader Hannah Pingree, D-North Haven. "They all generated a lot of energy in their districts during this campaign, met constituents and heard their concerns. They will all make fantastic legislators, and I'm looking forward to getting down to work with all of them in January."
Preliminary results from individual races are listed below. Final numbers were not available for each district at the time of this release.
In House District 27, Democrat Sharon H. Libby Jones was defeated Republican Pete Johnson but polled ahead of Independent Julius Erdo. House District 27 includes the towns of Abbott, Beaver Cove, Bowerbank, Brownville, Cambridge, Greenville, Guilford, Monson, Parkman, Sebec, Shirley, Willimantic and Plantation of Kingsbury, as well as the unorganized territories of Blanchard Township, Northeast Piscataquis and Northwest Piscataquis.
In House District 72, Democrat Mike Carey defeated Republican David Hughes by a margin of 612 to 298 votes. House District 72 includes part of Lewiston.
In House District 83, Democrat Pat Jones defeated Republican Clyde Dyar by a margin of 1,652 to 1,147 votes. Jones carried all five towns in her district. House District 83 includes the towns of Belgrade, Fayette, Manchester, Mount Vernon and Vienna.
In House District 93, Democrat Sheryl Briggs defeated Republican Katherine Harvey. House District 93 includes the towns of Canton, Carthage, Dixfield, Mexico and Peru.
In House District 99, Democrat Kate Smith was defeated by Republican Ralph Sarty, Jr. House District 99 includes the towns of Baldwin, Cornish, Denmark, Limington and Sebago.
madeleine albright to appear with
tom allen in augusta
Former U.S. Secretary of State to focus on
restoring America's place in the world
October 23, 2007
PORTLAND – Former Secretary of State Madeleine K. Albright will appear with Congressman and U.S. Senate candidate Tom Allen during an Allen campaign fundraiser in Augusta Friday.
“I am deeply honored that Madeleine Albright is putting her trust in my efforts to change the direction of this country,” Allen said. “I agree with her that we must change the course of the disastrous policies of the Bush-Cheney Administration. As Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright knew that America carried the enormous responsibility of world leadership. Today she is a strong voice for restoring the respect our nation held before the current administration and its allies ruined our reputation.”
“We absolutely must repair our nation's tarnished reputation and once again become a source of inspiration and hope around the world,” said Albright. “Tom Allen is committed to strengthening our security and restoring our reputation. It is leaders like Tom Allen who make us proud and keep us safe.”
In 1997, Secretary Albright was named the first female Secretary of State and became, at that time, the highest ranking woman in the history of the U.S. government. As our nation’s 64th Secretary of State, Dr. Albright not only reinforced America’s alliances, but advocated for democracy and human rights, and promoted American trade and business, labor and environmental standards abroad.
Today, Dr. Albright is a principal of The Albright Group LLC, a global strategy firm, and Chair and Principal of Albright Capital Management Group LLC, an investment advisory firm focused on emerging markets.
Friday’s general admission reception will be held from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 26, at Augusta Country Club. For more information on tickets to the event, call 207-774-9696.
Maine Dems mark 35th anniversary of Muskie's clean water act
Milestone serves as reminder of Maine Democrats'
continued efforts to protect environment
October 17, 2007
AUGUSTA -- Thursday marks the 35th anniversary of the Clean Water Act, the federal law that protects our lakes, rivers, streams and coastal areas from pollution and ensures clean water for all Americans. Envisioned and authored by Maine's Sen. Ed Muskie in 1972, its passage is hailed as one of the most successful pieces of environmental legislation ever passed.
In addition to going down in history as one of America's foremost pieces of environmental protection laws, Muskie's landmark legislation also inspired a long line of Democratic statesmen from Maine committed to protecting our natural resources. Muskie's legacy is an important reminder for Maine Democrats of our commitment to protecting our air, land and water.
"Muskie's work to protect our nation's waters are underscored today by the growing threat of climate change and record periods of drought that are currently plaguing parts of our country," said Maine Democratic Party Chair John Knutson. "In Maine, we're proud of the work our Democratic lawmakers have done - and continue to do - in response to the need for a clean environment."
Senator George Mitchell carried on Muskie's legacy in the United States Senate by leading the successful reauthorization of the 1990 Clean Air Act, adding new controls on acid rain toxins. Language in the 1990 reauthorization also included emissions trading provisions. Mitchell was also the author of the first national oil spill and prevention law.
As governor of Maine, John Baldacci has continuously been on the forefront of 'governing green.' Earlier this year, Governor Baldacci, along with nine other Northeast governors, signed onto the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, a first in the nation cap and trade collaboration for carbon emissions. But RGGI is not the only way Maine leads in conservation. Under Baldacci's leadership, Maine has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by eight percent since he took office in 2002 and Maine is the first state government in the nation to buy 100 percent of its energy from renewable resources.
Congressman Mike Michaud cited a concern to clean up Maine's rivers as one of the reasons he initially sought and won office to the state legislature. In the United States Congress, Michaud made good on his campaign promises by helping to secure nearly $7 million for the Penobscot River Restoration Trust. This partnership among various local, state and federal agencies will, when fully implemented, restore the free flow of the Penobscot River without losing important hydroelectricity-producing dams.
Congressman Tom Allen also has a stellar record of advocating for legislation that protects and preserves our natural resources. Together with Rep. Henry Waxman (D-CA), Allen introduced the Safe Climate Act, the single most aggressive piece of climate change legislation in Congress. Allen's bill seeks to reduce emissions to levels last seen in 1990 by 2020. By 2050, emissions would be 20 percent of the 1990 levels. The bill would also implement a cap and trade system for carbon dioxide emissions and requires that 20 percent of all energy produced in the United States come from renewable resources by 2020.
Congressman Allen, along with Michaud,made a strong statement by voting against President Bush's Energy Policy Act of 2005. This bill exempts oil and gas companies from certain provisions of the Safe Drinking Water Act and contained more than $7 billion in tax cuts for oil, gas and nuclear energy companies.