Elections 2020 results: An election cycle like no other in recent history

The 2020 General Election will be held Tuesday, November 3 with polls open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

This is our 2020 Election Resource hub, featuring a myriad of stories pertaining to all elections beginning with the March presidential primaries, followed by the summer annual town meetings and state primaries, and concluding with the November elections.

The sidebar (to the right on computer; at the bottom on mobile) features articles readers are most keen to read in preparation for the November elections: how to vote in the Midcoast, Q&A sessions with candidates, and breakdowns of referendum questions.

The below stories are all our 2020 election stories including letters to the editor, candidate forums, voter registration drives, and an archive of content published from elections held during March and the summer months.

This election resource hub is populated with new stories nearly every day, so check back often to remain up-to-date on everything leading up to the important November elections.

Seven votes determine winner of Lincolnville select board in special election

LINCOLNVILLE — A special election for an open seat on the Lincolnville Select Board was held Tuesday, Dec. 15, and by seven votes, Jordan Barnett-Parker won the race.The seat opened in mid-September when Selectman David Barrows passed in a tragic accident. Jordan Barnett-Parker and Jason Trundy vied for the open seat on the board. Barnett-Parker is a Lincolnville business owner, has coached local sports, serves as a mentor to students apprenticing in his... Read more

dec. 15 special election

On the issues: Lincolnville Select Board Candidate Jordan Barnett-Parker

Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Lincolnville Select Board in the Dec. 15 special election, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their positions on issues. The seat opened in mid-September when Selectman David Barrows passed in a tragic accident. Jordan Barnett-Parker and Jason Trundy are vying for the open seat on the board. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s... Read more

dec. 15 special election

On the issues: Lincolnville Select Board Candidate Jason Trundy

Letter to the editor: Cheryl Nevius

Vote Jordan Barnett-Parker for Lincolnville Select Board

The Lincolnville special election for the vacancy on the Select Board is December 15. I am supporting Jordan Barnett-Parker. Having recently served on the Lincolnville Broadband Committee with Jordan, I have seen first-hand his passion for our community. Jordan is also active as a member of the Lincolnville Budget Committee and has shown his fiscal conservancy by carefully considering expenses. My husband and I have been property owners in Lincolnville since 2010; members of our family have... Read more

Secretary Dunlap credits partnerships, thanks municipal clerks for conducting a safe election

AUGUSTA – Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap is congratulating municipal clerks and election workers across the State for safely conducting the most challenging General Election of our time on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020 – in the midst of a global pandemic, with record-breaking voter turnout of nearly 78% of registered voters. Secretary Dunlap is pleased to announce that the Maine Centers for Disease Control has no record of any COVID-19 outbreak investigations associated with polling places on... Read more

Letter to the editor: Arlene Jurewicz-Leighton

Join me in supporting Jordan Barnett-Parker as our new Lincolnville selectman

I am supporting Jordan Barnett-Parker for our Lincolnville selectmen in the December 15 election.I chatted with a friend recently that folks complain that we don’t have any new and younger people running for positions in our town. Over the last decade I have seen retired selectmen run on the platform that we need someone with experience.Though I understand the reasoning that experience counts, Jordan has been an active member of both the budget and broadband committee. In many ways he has ‘done... Read more

opinion

Internet is a necessary utility, not a luxury

The Town of Lincolnville may be my favorite place in the world. After living in three countries and four states, there was no doubt when it came time for me to decide where home was. It has one of the best schools in the state and has amazing artists, hard working farmers, and ingenious entrepreneurs. We have just about everything — well, almost everything. Our amazing town and its hard working residents are living in an internet slum. The prices are high, the speeds are slow, it goes down... Read more

district serves Frankfort, Searsport, Swanville, Winterport

Recount complete for House District 98 race

AUGUSTA - A recount of ballots cast has been completed for the general election contest in House District 98, Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap announced Friday. After counting the ballots from the Town of Searsport both candidates agreed to the results reported on election night by town officials. House District 98 is comprised of Frankfort, Searsport, Swanville and Winterport. Unofficial results ahead of the recount showed Scott Cuddy winning with a 2.13% lead over Jessica Connor.

district serves Belmont, Liberty, Lincolnville, Montville, Morrill, Palermo, Searsmont

Recount confirms Zeigler won House District 96 race

AUGUSTA — A recount of ballots cast has been completed for the general election contest in House District 96, Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap announced Friday. The final recount tabulation shows that Democratic candidate Stanley Paige Zeigler, Jr. is the winner of the election, with 2,975 votes, while Republican candidate Katrina J. Smith has 2,902 votes. House District 96 is comprised of the Waldo County towns of Belmont, Liberty, Lincolnville, Montville, Morrill, Palermo, and Searsmont.... Read more

date changed due to positive covid-19 case

UPDATED: Ballot recounts in House District 96, 98 races scheduled for Nov. 20

AUGUSTA — The requested recounts in the November General Election will take place Friday, Nov. 20, Maine Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap announced with the two state legislative races needing recounts involving Waldo County towns. The recount was originally to be held Nov. 13 but a postponement was needed amid a positive COVID-19 case. “The delay is necessitated due to an employee of the Bureau of Corporations, Elections and Commissions testing positive for COVID-19,” a news release... Read more

Rockland completes Council ballot recount: results confirm MacLellan-Ruf lead

ROCKLAND — Last week, Adam Lachman and Louise MacLellan-Ruf, candidates for Rockland City Council in the Nov. 3, 2020 election, requested Nov. 5 that the Rockland City Clerk conduct a formal recount of the November 3 City Council election.After the initial tabulation of the results on Election Day, Lachman had finished 14 votes behind MacLellan-Ruf for the two city council seats.On Nov. 11, the result was almost the same: the votes for MacLellan-Ruf narrowly exceeded those of Lachman, by 13.... Read more

Senator Collins issues statement on 2020 presidential election results

U.S. Senator Susan Collins released this statement: “First, I would offer my congratulations to President-elect Biden on his apparent victory – he loves this country, and I wish him every success. Presidential transitions are important, and the President-elect and the Vice-President-elect should be given every opportunity to ensure that they are ready to govern on January 20th. “I understand that the President and others have questions about the results in certain states. There is a process... Read more

Letter to the editor: Jon Kuhl

Collins vs. Gideon, the value of polls and Rank Choice Voting

This would be a great time to ask the Rank Choice Voting originators and supporters to: "Tell us again the RCV advantages, and tell us, just how many people understand it"? Due to much misunderstanding, isn't RCV equal to voter disenfranchisement? Because Senator Collins barely cleared the 50% rule we almost drug the state and country through the "knothole". And for what? Gideon was, contrary to all polls, easily defeated. RCV is a useless exasperating exercise, it should be "put out... Read more

Joe Biden wins Presidential race as Pennsylvania puts him over the top

As the clock struck 3 a.m. on the nation’s eastern coast Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, a winner had not been called in the U.S. Presidential election between incumbent Republican Donald Trump and Democratic challenger Joseph Biden, a former U.S. Vice President. And no winner was identified by the time the nation sat down for its morning cup of coffee Wednesday, Thursday, Friday or Saturday with several battleground states still tallying ballots amid more than 101 million votes... Read more

election day is december 15

Barnett-Parker, Trundy to vie for open Lincolnville select board seat

LINCOLNVILLE — Two individuals have returned nomination papers for an open Lincolnville select board race set to be held Tuesday, Dec. 15. The seat opened in mid-September when Selectman David Barrows passed in a tragic accident. Jordan Barnett-Parker and Jason Trundy will vie for the open seat on the board.

four binding questions, six nonbinding questions

Waldoboro voters pass all 10 referendum questions: affordable housing, community building, land acceptance

WALDOBORO — The Town of Waldoboro placed four binding referendum questions, as well as six non-binding referendum questions on the ballot for the November 3 general election. Referendum QuestionsQuestion 1: Shall the Town (1) approve the refunding (refinancing), at a lower interest rate, of a portion of the Town’s outstanding lease/purchase agreements in the approximate amount of $1,378,585 and approve a capital acquisition project in the amount of $274,000 consisting... Read more

Montville voters pass all four referendum questions

MONTVILLE — Four referendum articles appeared on the municipal ballot in the Town of Montville for the November 3 election. Article 1: To see if the Town will authorize the Select Board to obtain a multi-year lease/purchase agreement for the purchase of a grader not to exceed $100,000.Article 2: To see if the Town will vote to appropriate additional funds for the Liberty Volunteer Ambulance Service, which services both Montville and Liberty residents, in order to help... Read more

This is what happens when a candidate requests a recount of votes cast

Two area election races may undergo the recount process in the coming days, one to determine who will fill the Maine State House District 96 race and the other determining a seat on the Rockland City Council. In the House District 96 (Belmont, Liberty, Lincolnville, Montville, Morrill, Palermo and Searsmont) race, incumbent Stanley Paige Zeigler, D-Montville, currently maintains a 42-vote advantage over challenger Katrina Smith. Smith, R-Palermo, announced Nov. 5 on her campaign Facebook page... Read more

district serves Belmont, Liberty, Lincolnville, Montville, Morrill, Palermo, Searsmont

UPDATED: Katrina Smith to request recount in slim House District 96 loss

PALERMO — Katrina Smith, a Republican from Palermo, has announced she will be requesting a recount of votes in the House District 96 race. District 96 represents the towns of Belmont, Liberty, Lincolnville, Montville, Morrill, Palermo and Searsmont. “I don’t know that 42 can be overcome, but I do know that we deserve to make sure the results are accurate,” Smith said in a statement shared Thursday to her campaign Facebook page. “With a slim margin of only 42 votes in the race for District... Read more

Adam Lachman, Louise MacLellan-Ruf request Rockland City Council election recount

ROCKLAND — Adam Lachman and Louise MacLellan-Ruf, candidates for Rockland City Council in the Nov. 3, 2020 election, requested Nov. 5 that the Rockland City Clerk conduct a formal recount of the November 3rd City Council election.After the initial tabulation of the results on Election Day, Lachman finished 14 votes behind MacLellan-Ruf for the two city council seats. Both candidates spoke about the results and agree on the importance for a recount.“Given this unprecedented election and razor... Read more

More than 23,000 signatures gathered in one day

Opponents of CMP corridor gather referendum signatures in Belfast, Lincolnville, Rockland

No CMP Corridor, a grassroots advocacy PAC, sent out dozens of volunteers on Election Day, November 3, statewide to collect a new round of signatures to block the Central Maine Power’s (CMP) New England Clean Energy Connect (NECEC) proposal to build a 145-mile transmission line from the Québec-Maine border to Lewiston. During the day, volunteers posted updates on the Say NO to NECEC 501c3 non-profit Facebook group. Many of these volunteers stood outside in 34-degree weather at 120 polling... Read more

letter to the community

Valli Geiger: I will work hard to help our community rise again

To the Community of Rockland and Owls Head: How do I ever thank a community for placing their trust in me? For all the people who voted for me, I thank you. For all the people that vouched for me, told their neighbors and friends about me, I thank you. For all those who publicly amplified my message, my stances and contrasted them with my opponent, I thank you. I have long loved this community and have felt blessed by it since the day, in 1994, that Greg, Dash and I moved here. For all those... Read more

belmont, liberty, lincolnville, montville, morrill, palermo, searsmont

By slim margin, Zeigler is reelected to House District 96

Incumbent Stanley Paige Zeigler, a Democrat, was challenged this election cycle in the race for State House District 96 by Republican Katrina Smith. The district serves the communities of Belmont, Liberty, Lincolnville, Montville, Morrill, Palermo and Searsmont. Zeigler, according to his PenBayPilot.com candidate questionnaire, has worked in several professions including ambulance attendant, operating room orderly, logger, special education teacher and drug rehab center counselor.... Read more

Waldo County split on Biden-Trump contest for U.S. President

Five candidates appeared on the presidential ballot for the November 2020 General Election in the State of Maine. Appearing on the ballot are: • Democrats Joe Biden, and running mate Kamala Harris• Republicans Donald Trump, and running mate Michael Pence• Alliance Party’s Roque “Rocky” De La Fuente, and running mate Darcy Richardson• Green Independent’s Howard Hawkins, and running mate Angela Nicole Walker• Libertarians Jo Jorgensen, and running mate Jeremy Cohen

Knox County favors Joe Biden in presidential race

U.S. Congressional District 2 Candidate Dale Crafts issues statement, congratulates Jared Golden

Dale Crafts issued the following on the results of the election. “Running for Congress in Maine's Second Congressional district has been an amazing experience. For the past 15 months, I've enjoyed traveling over 50k miles, crisscrossing the state from Lewiston to Lubec, Fort Kent to Farmington, Brooks to Brewer. I have witnessed firsthand the resiliency that all Mainers have, the struggles they wade in, and the difficult times that they always seem to overcome. Maine is filled with some of... Read more

U.S. Senatorial candidate Lisa Savage on election outcome

In reaction to the returns on election night and current vote counting, independent Green candidate for U.S. Senate Lisa Savage made the following remarks: “Watching the results come in, I admit I am disappointed. I was excited by the possibility that, for the first time, a U.S. Senate race would be decided via ranked-choice voting. Unfortunately, it looks like that is not to be. I am left only to congratulate Susan Collins on her victory. I wish it were otherwise. “Regardless, I am proud... Read more

Town by town, by small cities, the numbers are recorded in entirety

Knox and Waldo County results are all in, ending an election year like no other in recent history

Wow. What a wild ride for Election Year 2020, and the Pilot is happy to report that results for all municipalities in Knox and Waldo counties are in, filed, and tabulated. The mission of getting voter results of our region of Maine for public review is complete! For those wanting to know how their particular communities voted on candidates, or on local issues, visit our special election page, which will remain front and center through the end of this election cycle, before becoming part of our... Read more

Waldoboro referendum question results still being tallied

WALDOBORO — Results from the political office races Waldoboro voters cast ballots on are available, though municipal referendum question results in the Lincoln County town are not available. Those results are being hand counted today and tomorrow, according to Town Clerk Marcus Benner, and results are expected to be available late Thursday at the earliest and Friday at the possible latest. Waldoboro placed four binding referendum questions, as well as six non-binding referendum questions on... Read more

district represents knox county (except washington)

Knox County reelects Dave Miramant to serve in Maine State Senate

Incumbent David Miramant, a Democrat, was challenged this election cycle by Republican Gordon Page for State Senate District 12. The district represents the communities of Appleton, Camden, Criehaven Township, Cushing, Friendship, Hope, Isle au Haut, Matinicus Isle Plantation, Muscle Ridge Islands Township, North Haven, Owls Head, Rockland, Rockport, South Thomaston, St. George, Thomaston, Union, Vinalhaven, and Warren.Miramant, according to his PenBayPilot.com candidate questionnaire... Read more

Letter to the editor: Gordon Page

Gordon Page issues congratulatory statement to competitor Dave Miramant

I write this letter to congratulate Senator David Miramant on his reelection on Tuesday.It has been my sincere honor to run for the office of Maine State Senate District 12. The support I received from voters throughout Knox County is humbling, and I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to have learned so much about our wonderful Midcoast communities in Knox County. I want to thank my wife Janet, my children, and my grandson Luke for their patience and love. I also want to thank my... Read more

serves rockland, owls head

Owls Head, Rockland choose Geiger to represent Maine House District 93

Democrat Valli Geiger and Republican Michael Mullins ran this election cycle in the race for State House District 93. Incumbent Pinny Beebe-Center was not on the ballot for the district this year. The district serves the communities of Owls Head and Rockland. Geiger, according to her PenBayPilot.com candidate questionnaire, has worked as a health policy analyst in Augusta, was director of the state’s largest hospice and has served on the Rockland City Council including a year as... Read more

Rockland elects Austin, MacLellan to City Council; approves minimum wage proposal

ROCKLAND — In addition to a referendum question to see if voters will approve or reject a proposed local minimum wage ordinance, five candidates appeared on the ballot in Rockland during the November election cycle vying for a pair of Rockland City Council seats. Seeking the two council seats were Sarah Austin, Ian Emmott, Adam Lachman, Louise MacLellan and Ryan Smith. Austin and Emmott completed PenBayPilot.com candidate questionnaires. The referendum question read: “... Read more

Republican Jay Allen concedes U.S. Congressional race to incumbent Chellie Pingree

Incumbent Congresswoman Chellie Pingree has been reelected for a seventh term to represent Maine’s First Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, according to a race call made by the Associated Press. The Bangor Daily News, as of 1 a.m., had Pingree holding a 20 percent advantage, 60 percent to 40 percent, statewide over challenger Republican Jay Allen. “I am humbled and grateful that Mainers have entrusted me to represent them once more in Congress,” Pingree... Read more

Belfast Councilors slip back into uncontested seats; school board members elected

BELFAST — Without competition, Belfast City Councilors Mary Mortier, Neal Harkness and Paul Dean easily regained their seats. Mortier received 3,074 votes; Harkness, 3,021; and Dean, 2994. Susan Bailey ran unopposed for Warden for Wards Three and Five, with 3,025 votes. Jill Goodwin ran unopposed for Deputy Warden for Wards One and Two with 3,019 votes. Additionally, David Crabiel was elected to RSU 71 with 2,678 votes, as was Joshua Solebello, with 2,022 vote, both for three-year terms.... Read more

serves frankfort, searsport, swanville, winterport

Scott Cuddy narrowly wins House District 98

Incumbent Scott Cuddy, a Democrat, was challenged this election cycle in the race for State House District 98 by Republican Jessica Connor. The district serves the communities of Frankfort, Searsport, Swanville and Winterport. Cuddy did not return a PenBayPilot.com candidate questionnaire, despite repeated requests for its submission. However, according to his candidate website, he has worked in several professions including bartender, laborer, journeyman electrician, carpenter’s... Read more

serves appleton, hope, union (part), warren

William Pluecker reelected to represent House District 95

Incumbent William “Bill” Pluecker, an independent, was challenged this election cycle in the race for State House District 95 by Republican Molly Luce. The district serves the communities of Appleton, Hope, part of Union and Warren. Pluecker, according to his PenBayPilot.com candidate questionnaire, has grown vegetables and raised cows on a nearly 100 acre farm in Warren for more than 15 years, while instilling the values of farming to the youth through an apprenticeship program... Read more

Rockport voters support regulating fireworks and solar farms, elect Budget Committee members

ROCKPORT — Voting 1,473 to 991, Rockport citizens endorsed a nonbinding fireworks ordinance to regulate the use of consumer fireworks. They also voted 1,871 to 561 in favor of a new Solar Farm Ordinance. And, from a long list of Budget Committee candidates, they elected Robert Duke, Jr., with 628 votes, and Desmond Fitzgerald, with 544 votes, to serve two-year terms, and Hannah Demmons, at 322 votes, for a one-year term. The Solar Farm Ordinance was created by the Ordinance Review Committee... Read more

Hope voters approve citizen recall initiative, Livestream meetings, and dog ordinance

HOPE — Voters in the Town of Hope were tasked with deciding on three municipal referendum questions when filling out their ballot for the November general election. Referendum Questions1. Shall the Town appropriate up to $2000 from the undesignated fund balance to purchase, lease and/or rent camera equipment and subscription fees to have live stream capabilities and video availability on the Town website for all Town public meetings until June 30, 2021, at which time... Read more

serves belfast, northport, waldo

Dodge reelected to House District 97

Incumbent Janice Dodge, a Democrat, was challenged this election cycle in the race for State House District 97 by Republican William Elliot, Jr. Originally, Dodge was being challenged by Matthew Digioia until he dropped out of the race in August. The district serves the communities of Belfast, Northport and Waldo. Dodge, according to her PenBayPilot.com candidate questionnaire, spent three decades as an educator and has volunteered for several local and state organizations. ... Read more

Camden approves its one municipal article on Nov. 3 warrant: improve sidewalk

CAMDEN — Camden’s one municipal warrant article, asking voters to approve an “Order of Condemnation,” with “just compensation,” for 120 square feet at 225 Washington Street, for the purposes of sidewalk improvements, passed at a vote of 2,916 to 724. Camden voters also voted for Joe Biden over Donald Trump as president, 2,931 to 832. They also favored Sara Gideon over incumbent Susan Collins for U.S. Senator, 2,511 to 1,098, and re-elected Chellie Pingree, with 2,927 votes over Jay Allen, 875... Read more

serving friendship, union (part), waldoboro, washington

Voters favor Evangelos for House District 91 seat

Incumbent Jeffrey Evangelos, an independent, was challenged this election cycle by Lowell Wallace, a Republican, in the race for State House District 91. The district serves the communities of Friendship, part of Union, Waldoboro and Washington. Evangelos, according to his PenBayPilot.com candidate questionnaire, worked as a public administrator before becoming Warren’s town manager, in 1976, at the age of 23. He then worked for the SAD 40 school district for 15 years and subsequently... Read more

Union voters reject proposed sidewalk project

UNION — Voters casting ballots in Union for the November 3 general election were presented with one municipal referendum question.The question read: “To see if the Town of Union will vote to continue with phase one of the sidewalk improvements project on Depot Street, funded by a $400,000 grant awarded from the Maine Department of Transportation and $100,000 appropriated from the Town’s sidewalk reserve account.” The ballot question further noted: “The Town has already... Read more

Dedham, Orland, Otis, Penobscot, Prospect, Stockton Springs, Verona Island

Hutchins reelected to House District 131

Incumbent Sherman Hutchins, a Republican, was challenged this election cycle in the race for State House District 131 by Democrat Veronica Garvey Magnan. The district serves the communities of Dedham, Orland, Otis, Penobscot, Prospect, Stockton Springs and Verona Island. Magnan, according to her PenBayPilot.com candidate questionnaire, is a retired educator who served as a teacher, principal, superintendent and school board chair. She has volunteered for several organizations and... Read more

serves cushing, matinicus, south thomaston, st. george, thomaston

Ann Matlack reelected to House District 92

Incumbent Ann Matlack, a Democrat, was to be challenged this election cycle by Republican Karry Leparulo in the race for State House District 92. Leparulo, however, dropped out of the race in August leaving Matlack running unopposed. The district serves the areas of Criehaven Township, Cushing, Matinicus Isle, Muscle Ridge Islands Townships, South Thomaston, St. George and Thomaston. Matlack did not return a 2020 PenBayPilot.com candidate questionnaire, despite repeated requests... Read more

represents lincoln county plus washington

Chloe Maxmin takes Senate District 13 seat over longtime incumbent Dana Dow

Incumbent Dana Dow, a Republican, was challenged this election cycle by Democrat Chloe Maxmin for State Senate District 13. The district serves the communities of Alna, Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Bremen, Bristol, Damariscotta, Edgecomb, Hibberts Gore, Jefferson, Louds Island, Monhegan Island Plantation, Newcastle, Nobleboro, Somerville, South Bristol, Southport, Waldoboro, Washington, Westport Island, Whitefield, Windsor, and Wiscasset.Maxmin, according to her PenBayPilot.com... Read more

Golden, Crafts vie for U.S. Congressional District 2 seat

Two individuals appeared on the ballot this election cycle to represent Maine’s Second U.S. Congressional District. Incumbent Jared Golden, a Democrat, was challenged by Republican Dale Crafts in the federal congressional race. Golden has represented Maine’s Second U.S. Congressional District since his election in 2018. Golden did not return a candidate questionnaire despite repeated requests for its submission. Crafts previously served in the Maine House of Representatives for... Read more

serves camden, islesboro, rockport

Victoria Doudera reelected to House District 94

Incumbent Victoria Doudera, a Democrat, found herself running unopposed in the race for State House District 94 this election cycle. The district serves the communities of Camden, Islesboro and Rockport. Doudera, according to her PenBayPilot.com candidate questionnaire, served as President of Midcoast Habitat for Humanity for five years, formerly owned the Blackberry Inn and served twice as the vice president for the local Chamber of Commerce.

Brooks, Burnham, Freedom, Jackson, Knox, Monroe, Thorndike, Troy, Unity

Kinney is reelected to House District 99

Incumbent MaryAnne Kinney, a Republican, was challenged this election cycle in the race for State House District 99 by Democrat April Turner. The district serves the communities of Brooks, Burnham, Freedom, Jackson, Knox, Monroe, Thorndike, Troy and Unity. Kinney did not return a PenBayPilot.com candidate questionnaire, despite repeated requests for its submission. However, according to her legislator Facebook page, she co-owns Kinney’s Sugarhouse and Knox Ridge Farm, and is an active... Read more

How Waldo County voted in the U.S. Senate race

Four individuals appeared on the ballot this election cycle for a U.S. Senate seat. Appearing on the ballot is Republican Susan Collins, the incumbent, and challengers Democrat Sara Gideon, Independent Lisa Savage and Independent Max Linn. Collins has represented Maine as U.S. Senator since being elected to the position in 1996. Collins provided insight into prominent issues important to Mainers through a PenBayPilot.com candidate questionnaire. Gideon has served in the Maine... Read more

represents waldo county

Voters favor Chip Curry for Senate District 11 seat

Democrat Glenn “Chip” Curry and Republican Duncan Milne ran this election cycle to represent State Senate District 11 in the Maine State Legislature. Incumbent Erin Herbig opted not to seek reelection for the seat this year. The district serves the communities of Belfast, Belmont, Brooks, Burnham, Frankfort, Freedom, Islesboro, Jackson, Knox, Liberty, Lincolnville, Monroe, Montville, Morrill, Northport, Palermo, Prospect, Searsmont, Searsport, Stockton Springs, Swanville,... Read more

How Knox County voted in the U.S. Senate race

Four individuals appeared on the ballot this election cycle for a U.S. Senate seat.Appearing on the ballot is Republican Susan Collins, the incumbent, and challengers Democrat Sara Gideon, Independent Lisa Savage and Independent Max Linn. Collins has represented Maine as U.S. Senator since being elected to the position in 1996. Collins provided insight into prominent issues important to Mainers through a PenBayPilot.com candidate questionnaire. Gideon has served in the Maine State... Read more

League of Women Voter’s election monitors report smooth voting at polls

The League of Women Voters of Maine reported that through 8 p.m. on Election Day, polling across the state has successfully concluded. In a news release, Executive Director Anna Kellar said, “With such an influx of ballots casted via absentee, it is not surprising that Maine would have a smooth election day for in person voting.” For the first time, LWVME deployed Maine volunteer election observers to provide real time reports from about 173 polling locations around the state. This included... Read more

How to safely vote in-person amid COVID-19

The U.S. CDC has provided some tips on how to safely vote in-person amid COVID-19 noting the more prepared you are, the more you reduce your risk of getting and spreading COVID-19. (People who are sick can follow CDC advice for when to be around others.) There are steps you can take to help you vote and minimize your risk during the COVID-19 pandemic. The more prepared you are, the less time you may have to spend at the voting site.When voting, you can protect yourself and others if you:avoid... Read more

opinion

Michael Mullins: A Good Campaign

In the most unusual of years, we have one of the most unusual campaign seasons. Across Maine and the nation, candidates have struggled with whether it is safe to go door-to-door and tried a variety of innovative ways to get the word out. It’s an intimidating time to be a first-time candidate. Yet, it’s more important than ever that people run. Perhaps it’s because of the coronavirus, but a total of 34 seats will go uncontested in the Maine Legislature on November 3, the first time this has... Read more

Letter to the editor: Vicki Doudera

Time for fresh energy and leadership in Washington

Courage, compromise, and the ability to solve problems -- these are the qualities I look for in our elected leaders, and the values I have seen demonstrated by candidate for U.S. Senate Sara Gideon. Sara had the guts to stand up to our former Governor when he used bullying tactics, and she won't bow down to Trump should the worst case scenario happen. She's proven that she's someone who can reach across the aisle and work in a bipartisan fashion to get things done for the people of Maine. ... Read more

district, locally, serves Prospect and Stockton Springs

On the issues: House District 131 Candidate Veronica Garvey Magnan

Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Maine State Legislature, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide. Veronica Garvey Magnan, Democrat, seeks to represent Maine House District 131, which includes Dedham, Orland, Otis, Penobscot, Prospect, Stockton Springs... Read more

district serves appleton, hope, warren and part of union

On the issues: House District 95 Candidate William Pluecker

Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Maine State Legislature, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide. William Pluecker, Unenrolled, is seeking reelection to House District 95, which includes Appleton, Hope, part of Union, and Warren. 1. Please provide a... Read more

district represents all of waldo county

On the issues: Senate District 11 Candidate Duncan Milne

Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Maine State Legislature, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide. Duncan Milne, Republican, seeks election to represent Senate District 11, which includes Belfast, Belmont, Brooks, Burnham, Frankfort, Freedom, Islesboro,... Read more

On the issues: Senate District 12 Candidate Gordon Page

Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Maine State Legislature, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide. Gordon Page, Republican, is seeking election to represent Maine Senate District 12, which includes Appleton, Camden, Criehaven Township, Cushing,... Read more

On the issues: Senate District 11 Candidate Glenn ‘Chip’ Curry

Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Maine State Legislature, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide. Glenn “Chip” Curry, Democrat, seeks election to represent Senate District 11, which includes Belfast, Belmont, Brooks, Burnham, Frankfort, Freedom,... Read more

district serves owls head and rockland

On the issues: House District 93 Candidate Valli Geiger

Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Maine State Legislature, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide. Valli Geiger, Democrat, is seeking election to represent Maine House District 93, which includes Owls Head and Rockland. 1. Please provide a concise... Read more

On the issues: Senate District 12 Candidate David Miramant

Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Maine State Legislature, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide. David Miramant, Democrat, is seeking reelection to represent Maine Senate District 12, which includes Appleton, Camden, Criehaven Township, Cushing,... Read more

DISTRICT SERVES OWLS HEAD AND ROCKLAND

On the issues: House District 93 Candidate Michael Mullins

Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Maine State Legislature, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide. Michael Mullins, Republican, is seeking election to represent Maine House District 93, which includes Owls Head and Rockland. 1. Please provide a concise... Read more

DISTRICT SERVES APPLETON, HOPE, WARREN AND PART OF UNION

On the issues: House District 95 Candidate Molly Luce

Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Maine State Legislature, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide. Molly Luce, Republican, is seeking election to House District 95, which includes Appleton, Hope, part of Union, and Warren. 1. Please provide a concise... Read more

On the issues: House District 91 Candidate Jeffrey Evangelos

Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Maine State Legislature, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide. Jeffrey Evangelos, Unenrolled, is seeking reelection to represent Maine House District 91, which includes Friendship, part of Union, Waldoboro and... Read more

On the issues: Senate District 13 Candidate Chloe Maxmin

Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Maine State Legislature, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide. Chloe Maxmin, Democrat, seeks to represent Maine Senate District 13, which represents Alna, Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Bremen, Bristol, Damariscotta,... Read more

district serves Belmont, Liberty, Lincolnville, Montville, Morrill, Palermo, Searsmont

On the issues: House District 96 Candidate Stanley Paige Zeigler

Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Maine State Legislature, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide. Stanley Paige Zeigler, Democrat, is seeking reelection to House District 96, which includes Belmont, Liberty, Lincolnville, Montville, Morrill, Palermo and... Read more

district serves Belmont, Liberty, Lincolnville, Montville, Morrill, Palermo, Searsmont

On the issues: House District 96 Candidate Katrina Smith

Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Maine State Legislature, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide. Katrina Smith, Republican, is seeking election to represent Maine House District 96, which includes Belmont, Liberty, Lincolnville, Montville, Morrill,... Read more

district serves belfast, northport, waldo

On the issues: House District 97 Candidate Janice Dodge

Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Maine State Legislature, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide. Janice Dodge, Democrat, is seeking reelection to House District 97, which includes Belfast, Northport and Waldo. 1. Please provide a concise biography of... Read more

On the issues: House District 94 Candidate Victoria Doudera

Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Maine State Legislature, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide. Victoria Doudera, Democrat, is seeking reelection to represent Maine House District 94, which includes Camden, Islesboro and Rockport. 1. Please provide a... Read more

Follow the Money: Maine State Campaign Finance Tracker

The below story and data was compiled by Maine Monitor. Maine Monitor is a local journalism product published by The Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting, a nonpartisan, nonprofit civic news organization based in Augusta. Its public-facing website is themainemonitor.org. All data is sourced from the Maine Ethics Commission. Questions about the data can be directed to the author via email.It’s an even-numbered year, and in Maine that means state legislature elections — and a... Read more

Follow the Money: Maine Federal Campaign Finance Tracker

Mainers are facing a historic congressional election season. In November, voters will decide whether to keep Sen. Susan Collins — the only Republican representing a New England state in Congress — in the office she has held since 1997. Record-breaking sums of money are pouring into the race from across the country, attempting to sway voters.Mainers in the 2nd Congressional District will also weigh in on whether first-term Rep. Jared Golden’s moderate voice in the Democratic... Read more

students and staff split on collins-gideon, geiger-mullins

Oceanside High School students, staff oust three incumbents in mock election

ROCKLAND — The Oceanside High School social studies department conducted a virtual mock election between Tuesday, Oct. 27 and Friday, Oct. 30. Students and staffers at the school elected to oust three incumbents while sending two incumbents to reelection victories. Four Democrats won races among the Mariners casting ballots, while two Republicans won races. In the Presidential race, Democrat Joe Biden defeated incumbent Republican Donald Trump by a 113-81 combined tally with a 76-68 tally... Read more

State offering absentee ballot tracking service

AUGUSTA — Maine Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap announced Monday, Sept. 28 the launch of a new elections feature for the state allowing voters casting absentee ballots this November to track the status of their absentee ballot. The service can be found by clicking here, and at the top of the online absentee ballot request page. “This tracker will give voters peace of mind knowing that their ballot is on its way, and later, that their ballot has been safely received and accepted by the... Read more

Letter to the editor: Seth Silverton

Haven't we had enough of disingenuous real estate developers in public office?

It feels like I’m in an emotionally abusive relationship with yet another disingenuous Republican real estate developer who doesn’t know who he’s messing with. No, I’m not talking about Donald Trump. I’m talking about Mike Mullins. Mr. Mullins started out his obscenely expensive campaign (so far he’s spent over $77,000.00 for a Maine House seat, a record, by the way) by hiring Ms. Marci Casas and paying her roughly eleven thousand dollars. He’s running against Valli Geiger for Maine House Seat... Read more

Thomaston announces extended hours for voting Oct. 30

THOMASTON — The Town of Thomaston has announced some information about voting for the upcoming Nov. 3 election. Early Voting ends Friday, Oct. 30, and the town office, on Valley Street in the old Libby School, will remain open until 5 p.m. with the entrance in the rear. Meanwhile, polls will be open Nov. 3 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the multipurpose room of the town office. All absentee ballots must be received by the town clerk before 8 p.m. on Election Day. Please put them in the drop box... Read more

Letter to the editor: Good Shepherd Building Advocates Leadership

Ongoing support is crucial for food-insecure Mainers

At the end of September, all four of Maine’s congressional members voted to pass a continuing resolution to avoid a government shutdown. As a part of this continuing resolution, several critical anti-hunger programs will continue to receive funding. Programs such as SNAP (formerly known as food stamps) and the Pandemic-EBT have become essential supports to the sharply increasing number of Mainers who have recently found themselves unable to meet their families’ hunger needs. Before COVID-19,... Read more

Letter to the editor: Save Rockland Business Alliance

Alliance encourages Rockland voters to vote ‘No’ on the minimum wage referendum

Save Rockland Business is an informal Alliance of businesses and organizations who share concern about the minimum wage referendum question on the Rockland ballot. The Alliance encourages Rockland voters to vote ‘No’ on the minimum wage referendum question. The Alliance has come together in response to the action of the Rockland City Council to place the issue of a local minimum wage on the current ballot following discussion at one meeting on September 14 – one week prior to the deadline... Read more

Letter to the editor: Michael and Fletcher McNaboe

Adam Lachman is a candidate who possesses experience, commitment and integrity

We are writing in support of Adam Lachman for Rockland's City Council. Adam is a candidate who possesses the experience, commitment and integrity that we should all want to see in our elected officials. In addition to being a small business owner and native of the Midcoast, he has worked in government for nearly a decade at the local, State and Federal levels. Adam is NOT a career politician, however. His work has focused in the areas of public policy and local and State economics. He has a... Read more

Letter to the editor: Beverly Roxby

Dear Undecided Voter

Dear Undecideds: The man you may vote to re-elect is just a man, not a god.He is your brother, whom you can’t invite to a family gathering because he’s rude, he lies, he hates strong women and ridicules their looks and their brainpower.He hires you for a big expensive project, but after praising your work he finds some ‘flaw’ and refuses to pay you.He’s the person who scams you—promises a future for which you’re willing to pay thousands, then he bilks you.He’s the neighbor who threatens you... Read more

Letter to the editor: Jennifer Albee

Chip Curry will be a champion of energy and the environment in the Maine Senate

Last month marked the hottest September ever recorded since the U.S. government began tracking temperatures in 1880. As the local effects of climate change knock on our door here in Maine, it is imperative that we embrace both the challenges and opportunities ahead of us. After more than eleven years working in solar energy, I see these opportunities every day and know the financial and societal impact they hold. Chip Curry understands the importance of supporting energy efficiency and... Read more

Letter to the editor: Janis Petzel

Absentee Ballots must be received by November 3

I encourage all of my friends and neighbors to vote the Democratic ticket from top to bottom this election. If you're voting absentee, plan to drop your ballot off in person at your Town Clerk's office. Your ballot must be received by November 3 (not postmarked) to be counted. With just a little less than a week to go before the election, it's better to be safe than sorry with this firm voting deadline. And don't forget to sign the back of the envelope. You can track the status of... Read more

Letter to the edito: Robert Adler

Chip Curry is clear about prioritizing issues that matter to Waldo County

I started volunteering for Chip Curry after asking him some tough questions about the negative impact of internet “deserts” — the lack of access to reliable high-speed internet in much of Waldo County. I believe that this infrastructure issue dramatically reduces our ability to educate our kids and adults, to provide remote healthcare services that benefit from professionals being able to see and treat their patients in their own homes, to attract businesses to Waldo County, and therefore to... Read more

Union announces special Oct. 30 voting hours

UNION — The Union Town Office will be open for voting and registering to vote only on Friday, October 30 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., according to a Wednesday morning notice from the town office.

Islesboro announces extended hours for absentee voting in presence of town clerk

ISLESBORO — The town clerk for Islesboro has announced some extended hours for in-person voting ahead of the November 3 election. The town office will remain open until 7 p.m., instead of the usual 4:30 p.m. closing, Wednesday, Oct. 28. The office will open, as scheduled, at 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 29 marks the final day to request an absentee ballot without a special circumstance for the upcoming election. The town office will remain open an extra half-four until 5 p.m. for voting... Read more

opinion

Glenn ‘Chip’ Curry: We are Waldo County strong

As a candidate for State Senate I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with hundreds of people from all over Waldo County. I have found that we are not nearly as divided as outsiders say we are. We share many values and have a history of working together with respect. We value fairness, justice, safety, and compassion. We believe that the vulnerable should be cared for and that hard work is expected and should be fairly compensated. We value raising healthy strong children as well as caring for... Read more

Letter to the editor: Jay Field

Chip Curry will be inclusive, optimistic and competent leader

I write to urge my fellow citizens to elect Chip Curry to the Maine State Senate for District 11. Knowing Chip as I do, I would support him under any circumstances. But sending him to represent us in Augusta is most urgent right now—at a time when racial and cultural conflict, anger, fear and division consume our politics at the federal, state and local levels. When elected officials and candidates for public office exploit these fault lines in pursuit of power, we fight back by electing... Read more

Letter to the editor: Tom Peaco

No on Rockland minimum wage referendum question

Following feedback from dozens of Rockland businesses and organizations regarding the minimum wage referendum currently on the Rockland ballot, the Board of Directors of the Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce has issued the following statement. As an association of hundreds of local businesses and organizations employing thousands of local residents, the Chamber and its members fully recognize the challenges of living affordably in Rockland, and the need to find workable solutions to... Read more

Letter to the editor: Gary Fowlie

Our Senator, Dave Miramant, is accessible and effective

I’ve known Senator Dave Miramant since way back when he was a selectman in Camden, and he has always been very accessible, stopping by my business, Village Variety, to chat about issues coming up in Augusta that could affect my business and others like mine. And he doesn’t just stop by when there’s an election coming up. That’s who Dave is: a great senator who looks out for us and works hard to represent our voices in Augusta. Not only is Dave accessible, he also gets things done. Last year, he... Read more

Students choose Biden for president in 2020 Mock Election

AUGUSTA — Students from 92 Maine schools chose Democratic nominee Joe Biden in the U.S. presidential race, in Student Mock Election results tallied Oct. 21 in Augusta, according to a news release from the Maine Secretary of State Matt Dunlap.The voting has been underway at Maine schools since mid-October, for the offices of U.S. President, U.S. Representative and U.S. Senate.Chellie Pingree (D-North Haven) won the student vote for the District 1 U.S. Representative to Congress seat and Jared... Read more

Candidates from Union, Southport Island carry experience in conservation

Two vie for Conservation District Board of Supervisors

Each fall Knox-Lincoln Soil & Water Conservation District holds an election for one three-year position on the five-member Board of Supervisors. This year’s candidates for the open position of supervisor are Robyn Tierney of Union and Nancy Prisk of Southport Island. Robyn Tierney recently moved to Union after semi-retiring from a career as a restoration ecologist and project manager in New Mexico. With a PhD in grassland ecology, Tierney has worked as an environmental and land management... Read more

Midcoast town clerks report significant number of absentee ballot mailings, and returns

MIDCOAST — With barely more than a week until Election Day 2020, more voters around the country have already cast ballots in this year’s presidential election than the number of people who voted early or absentee in the 2016 race, according to The Associated Press, in an Oct. 25 report. That trend is mirrored in Maine’s Midcoast, where municipal staff members have bee scurrying for more than two weeks, first mailing out absentee ballots, and then collecting the daily returns of those ballots... Read more

Letter to the editor: Mitchell Dillon

Molly Luce is the advocate, fighter, leader needed to protect, defend, advance community interests

As a missionary pastor serving in Hope, back in the late 1980s, my family and I developed a true love for the people, the culture, and the unique natural beauty of this amazing community. It was during that time that we first met Molly (Pease) Luce. Even as a young woman, she was a force to be reckoned with. Having kept in touch over the years, we’ve seen not much has changed. Filled with a deep sense of compassion and a gift for service, she has taken her life experience and grown into a... Read more

opinion

Nothing is accomplished without compromise

Finding middle ground is one of the most important parts of being a good teammate. Athletes on winning sports teams understand that they must set aside their differences in order to win. Striking a compromise that suits everyone’s strengths is rarely easy, especially under pressure. This takes communication and empathy. Right now in America our government is not functioning like a team and our democracy is at risk as a result. Meanwhile, we face huge challenges, including climate change,... Read more

Letter to the editor: Annette Naegel

Voting: A right we must all practice

“The right to vote is of the essence of a democratic society and any restrictions on that right strike at the heart of representative government”, stated Justice Rehnquist, in a 1974 case defending this fundamental right The 14th Amendment, with four amendments, guarantees freedom from voting interference. We have the incredible privilege to vote for our representatives in the United States unlike other places in the world, where elections are not free and open. While November 3rd is... Read more

investigating campaign finance trends in this year’s state and federal races

How record sums of money have shaped Maine’s 2020 elections

Every day when she gets home from work, Sharon Houle is greeted by five or six pieces of oversized cardstock trying to convince her how to vote.She constantly changes the radio in her car to avoid political advertisements. She records most of her television shows so she can fast-forward through commercials. She’s overwhelmed, frustrated and confused by the messaging and amount of money spent to try to influence Maine voters.“Nothing in my mailbox is going to change my mind,” said Houle, 64, of... Read more

Letter to the editor: Jeff Hamilton

Gordon Page has the temperament, integrity, required to represent all residents of District 12

I am writing in support of Gordon Page as candidate to represent District 12 in the Maine Senate. I have known Gordon for five years while interacting with him at many different levels and within many different organizations in our midcoastal communities. He has the temperament, integrity, and collaborative approach required to represent ALL residents of District 12. He knows the many issues facing Knox County well. He has done his homework and put in the time and energy getting out to... Read more

Letter to the edito: Susan W. Longley

Time to give Sara Gideon opportunity to be the Sen. Margaret Chase Smith-style leader Maine expects

As an independent-thinking Maine citizen who comes from a family dedicated to public service, I value non-partisanship, candor and getting things done. Maine’s challenges are great, and we need to make sure that our elected representatives focus on the needs of Mainers over partisanship. I am voting for Sara Gideon because I believe that she represents the next generation of leadership in Maine and has shown us that she knows how to lead from a position of building consensus. Not so anymore... Read more

Letter to the editor: Peter Overlock

Mike’s the true leader Rockland needs to find innovative, bipartisan solutions to state problems

As you know, Lindsey Brook begins just south of the Tennyson Quarry, runs through downtown Rockland, and feeds into the Rockland Harbor. One can only imagine the bureaucratic quagmire associated with trying to improve this quintessential piece of Rockland. Who would freely choose to devote their precious time and resources into a project many would leave to someone else to handle?Mike Mullins.Upon purchasing and dramatically improving an abandoned quarry in Rockland, Mike became interested in... Read more