By Lauren McCauley | Editor
“You can’t hide lower skills in a trade, whereas middle management and white collar jobs are protected by the vagueness of the job.” - Shoua Thao, a Minnesota machinist, on the challenge of finding skilled tradespeople. According to data from the Alliance for America’s skilled trades, Maine ranked last in the nation for supply of skilled workers.
Gubernatorial candidates Bobby Charles, Hannah Pingree and Rick Bennett at their second debate in Bangor on Oct. 8, 2026. (Screenshot courtesy of Maine Public)
ELECTION 2026
By Eesha Pendharkar
On a wide range of issues from immigration enforcement to tribal sovereignty, reproductive rights to data centers, Republican Bobby Charles was the clear outlier in the second gubernatorial debate Thursday evening.
ELECTION 2026
By Emma Davis
During the second U.S. Senate debate on Thursday, Democratic nominee Troy Jackson continued his criticism of Republican U.S. Sen. Susan Collins for not doing enough to oppose President Donald Trump’s power, while the incumbent touted her behind-the-scenes efforts to alleviate harm caused by the administration.
ELECTION 2026
By Emma Davis
Democratic U.S. Senate nominee Troy Jackson made most of his recent income as a consultant to two international unions based in Maryland, according to a financial disclosure filed on Monday.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
In video endorsement, Obama backs Jackson for Senate | Emma Davis
Aging workforce, immigration crackdown are depleting skilled workers. | Tim Henderson, Stateline
Feds unlikely to change abortion pill policy before next year | Sofia Resnick, Stateline
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