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QUOTE OF THE DAY

“I don’t know why anybody in their right mind would take credit for this. I mean, it was a total disaster, and our reports confirm that.”

— John Sopko, who was the special inspector general for Afghanistan reconstruction for nearly 13 years, speaking to the Bangor Daily News about police training there that Bobby Charles, who was head of the federal agency that oversaw the training, has listed among his qualifications to be Maine’s next governor.

TODAY’S TOP STORIES

Bobby Charles has built his Republican gubernatorial campaign around his experience managing large, complex federal operations. But more than a dozen federal audits criticized the bureau Charles led between 2003 and 2005, finding poor management and billions spent without accountability.

A historic Bangor church is starting a $3 million renovation as membership surges. All Souls Congregational Church stands out as a growing community during a long period of decline for Christianity in the United States.

Candidates at Tuesday’s Democratic gubernatorial debate took aim at Donald Trump. The Republican president was a frequent refrain from the opening and closing statements and many points in between.

Here’s how to apply to the state’s new paid family and medical leave program. Roughly 100 Mainers are already out from work through the program, which started May 1.

NEWS FROM AROUND THE STATE

MAINE IN PICTURES

The Rev. Rebekah Timms and the Rev. Chad Poland in front of All Souls Congregational Church in Bangor on Tuesday. After an influx of new members, the congregation has decided to start on a $3 million reconstruction of its auxiliary wing. Credit: / BDN Credit: Linda Coan O'Kresik / BDN

FROM THE OPINION PAGES

A voter sports a sticker at the Cross Insurance Center in Bangor on Nov. 4, 2025. Credit: Linda Coan O'Kresik / BDN

“Ranked-choice voting encourages candidates to appeal broadly, seek second-choice support and sometimes even cross-endorse each other.”

Opinion: Maine has a crowded June primary. Ranked-choice voting will prevent spoilers.

LIFE IN MAINE

We want to hear from you about affordability.

Meet the only Aroostook tennis player to auto-qualify for the state singles tournament.

Some of Maine’s biggest lake trout are older than you think.