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QUOTE OF THE DAY

“To the federal government, I say this: If your plan is to come here to be provocative and to undermine the civil rights of Maine residents, do not be confused — those tactics are not welcome here.”

— Gov. Janet Mills in a 3-minute video released Wednesday after officials in Portland and Lewiston learned that federal immigration enforcement agents may be coming to their cities next week.

TODAY’S TOP STORIES

Portland and Lewiston are bracing for Immigration and Customs Enforcement to show up in the next week. Mayors from both cities are concerned about the expected influx of federal agents. Gov. Janet Mills said the agency’s aggressive tactics are “not welcome” in Maine.

The Trump administration is investigating two Maine school districts for alleged Title IX discrimination. The administration did not explain the investigations but said they were based on complaints.

Two solar companies are suing Maine over a law they say is discriminatory. The law was designed to reduce costs of net energy billing, but Berwick Solar and Rumford Solar say it passes those costs to out-of-state companies like theirs.

Northern Mainers are embracing the revival of the Nordic Heritage Outdoor Center. The expansive Presque Isle venue, made famous by hosting international biathlon championships, had been shuttered since late 2024.

NEWS FROM AROUND THE STATE

MAINE IN PICTURES

The Washburn Fire Department’s retrofitted tanker truck (right) barely fit under the garage doors of the previous station. After more than 100 years, the northern Maine community has a new town office and fire station. Credit: Cameron Levasseur / BDN

FROM THE OPINION PAGES

Betty Cole, right, connects with some participants through video call for an interfaith meditation practice on Dec. 15, 2025, at All Saints Episcopal Church in Pasadena, California. Credit: William Liang / AP

“Perhaps Maine’s declining religious affiliation is not always a rejection of values, but a quiet search for different ways to live thoughtfully, compassionately, and fully in a complicated world.”

Opinion: Mainers are likely finding meaning beyond the pews

LIFE IN MAINE

If you see what looks like black pepper scattered on snow, it might be snow fleas.

Abby Morin never hunted snowshoe hares until she got her beagles.

A life-sized inflatable whale is making a splash in Maine.