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QUOTE OF THE DAY

“There’s a lot to swear about these days … Whether it will [work] in a general campaign is a whole different question.”

— Maine Democratic Party vice chair Peggy Schaffer on political candidates’ increasing use of profanity on the campaign trail.

TODAY’S TOP STORIES

Nobody cares about this quirky Maine elected office until things go wrong. Washington County is considering a referendum to stop electing the treasurer, citing lack of financial experience and voter apathy.

Swear words are having a moment with Democrats on Maine’s campaign trail. Profanity is showing up more in Maine Democratic campaigns, echoing a broader shift in political language. 

Three candidates are running for two seats on Old Town City Council. Michael May, Russell Sossong and Charlene Virgilio are running for two three-year terms.

Maine’s rural nursing shortage prompts a new degree program in Machias. The new nursing program at the University of Maine at Machias aims to address the shortage of nurses in Washington County.

See the “mind-blowing” $50 million renovations at UMaine’s Alfond Arena. The updates at Alfond Arena include larger locker rooms, a film room, player lounges with kitchenettes and study tables, conference rooms, and a larger and better-equipped workout room.

NEWS FROM AROUND THE STATE

MAINE IN PICTURES

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner drew 1,400 attendees at a rally at Bunker Brewing Co. in Portland last week. Platner is among the Democrats on Maine’s campaign trail embracing profanity in the run-up to the 2026 elections. Credit: Garrick Hoffman / BDN

FROM THE OPINION PAGES

Two people sit on a bench in South Portland as gray clouds move in at dusk on July 17, 2024. Credit: Troy R. Bennett / BDN

“There is not a human being on this earth for whom you cannot, on one hand, find fault — even to hate — and, on the other hand, find virtue and goodness, common ground, friendship, and even companionship.”

Opinion: Fear is everywhere, but it doesn’t have to be our future

LIFE IN MAINE

Maine loons swim through fall foliage in stunning video. Watch this footage of Maine loons swimming on a lake through a kaleidoscope of fall foliage colors. 

The mystery of ruby-throated hummingbirds’ migration. Discover facts about ruby-throated hummingbirds, their unique nesting habits and the dangers they face during migration.

How to avoid making common moose-hunting mistakes. Learn essential tips from Maine’s moose biologist for a successful moose hunt, including preparation, field dressing and meat preservation.