Rep. Lucas Lanigan, who defeated Democrat Patricia Kidder by one vote, has been charged with aggravated domestic violence assault for allegedly choking his wife. She has asked the charge to be dropped, but officials say they plan to pursue the case against Lanigan.
Randy Billings
Staff Writer
Randy Billings is a government watchdog and political reporter who has been the State House bureau chief since 2021. He was named the Maine Press Association’s Journalist of the Year in 2020. He joined the Press Herald in 2012 as the Portland City Hall reporter, where his beat touched on a wide range of topics, including municipal government, immigration, homelessness, housing and social services. Prior to that, he worked at various weeklies as well as business and arts publications. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maine, Orono. He lives in North Yarmouth with his wife and two children and enjoys the outdoors and playing his upright bass.
Posted inElection 2024, Local & State, News, Politics
The latest on recounts in legislative races, Maine’s 2nd Congressional District
Four recounts in state legislative races have so far confirmed the election night winners, all Democrats.
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Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Democrats turn to southern Maine for legislative leadership
All 6 of the party’s leaders in the 132nd Legislature represent communities within 26 miles of Portland, opening Democrats to criticism from Republicans for not representing the whole state.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Sen. Collins wants full confirmation process for Trump appointees
In a 15-minute interview with the Press Herald, Maine’s senior senator also talked about some of President-elect Donald Trump’s early moves and policy goals.
Posted inNews, Politics
Susan Collins plans to seek reelection in 2026
The Republican, Maine’s senior U.S. senator, told a reporter at the Capitol that she will seek a sixth term.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Biddeford lawmaker chosen as speaker of Maine House
Rep.-elect Ryan Fecteau, D-Biddeford, previously held the job, from 2020-22, before leaving office because of term limits.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Gun rights advocates file lawsuit challenging 72-hour waiting period
Maine’s new 72-hour waiting period for gun purchases was expected to face a court challenge similar to those playing out in other states.
Posted inElection 2024, Local & State, News, Politics
Advocates say red flag gun safety petition got big boost on Election Day
The Gun Safety Coalition of Maine wants to make it easier for family members to petition a court to take firearms away from loved ones deemed a danger to themselves or others.
Posted inElection 2024, Politics
Susan Collins in line for powerful new role in Republican-controlled Senate
But an ascent by Maine’s senior senator to an influential new post could be derailed by Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, and her past opposition to President-elect Trump could complicate things.
Posted inElection 2024, Local & State, Politics
Maine Republicans keep Faulkingham as House leader
Meanwhile, Rep. Katrina Smith, R-Palmero, has been elected to serve as the assistant minority leader, replacing Rep. Amy Arata, R-New Gloucester.