On Sunday, 5 June, John Christie and Naomi Schalit, from the Center for Public Interest Reporting, gave a presentation on changes in the media and the impact on Maine politics. The two were the guests of the Sagadahoc County Democrats.
Despite dozens of MPA protesters packing the halls and chanting “Read the Bill!” and “Please Vote No!” as Maine Representatives entered the House chamber this morning, the rollback of health care coverage (LD 1333) passed the House 76 to 72 on a party line vote.
This bill will do harm to people living in rural Maine, middle-aged Mainers, small business owners and people with pre-existing conditions. And it passed with no public oversight.
This morning, right before the vote, volunteers with MPA and the League of Young Voters interviewed Republican Representatives to see if they had actually read the bill and understood what it would do.
NONE OF THEM HAD OR DID!
Emery Deabay, a paperworker from Bucksport, speaks about the importance of the 120 year old Labor Committee.
“Now more than ever, Maine workers need a voice in Augusta. But our newly elected leaders want to take that voice away. In these economically challenging times, Maine’s unemployed workers, employed workers, and retired workers play an essential role in ensuring we rebound from this economic recession stronger than ever.”
Maine Squeeze
Maine Governor Paul LePage removes a pro-labor mural because of its anti-business message. (03:36)