Ever wonder what a day in the life of a U.S. Senator looks like?   From constituent meetings to committee hearings, votes on the Senate floor, and conversations with Maine people, no two days are the same.

61 years ago today, LBJ signed the#VotingRightsAct into law, protecting one of the most fundamental rights in our democracy: Americans' right to vote.   As we mark its anniversary, we should remember our democracy is strongest when all registered voters can make their voices heard.

The National Park Service hid behind their budget problems, but it's a result of this White House cutting staff and funding pet projects. Creating a staffing & fiscal crisis, then complaining about resources is like killing your parents & pleading for mercy because you're an orphan.

Today’s fatal ICE shooting in Maine has raised more questions than answers. I called on DHS Secretary Mullin to launch a full, fair, and transparent investigation—and I’m going to hold him to his word there will be one.

The Fourth of July is a celebration of the revolutionary ideals set forth in the Declaration of Independence—liberty, equality, and self-government.
 As America marks its 250th birthday, may we continue striving to build a more perfect union.🇺🇸

As we approach America’s 250th birthday, it’s worth revisiting the ideas that built our country. In this episode of Civics in 60, I’m breaking down the Federalist Papers—the essays that helped explain & defend the Constitution at a pivotal moment in our history.

As we approach #America250, we must ensure the next generation understands the Constitution and how our government works. Thanks to @brookings.edu for hosting this important bipartisan discussion on civic education.

Intelligence only works when analysts evaluate the facts and tell the truth. After a nominee spoke about the importance of independent analysis and the willingness to tell policymakers what they don't want to hear, his response to my follow-up question was disappointing.

Prevention measures like an $11 bath mat could save Americans tens of thousands of dollars. If Medicare would send these out to every recipient in America, I’ll bet the investment would pay for itself in under a year.

A reconciliation bill is a fast-track budget bill that lets the Senate pass certain spending & tax changes with a simple majority. However, there are strict rules about how this works. That’s where something called a “Byrd Bath” comes in. Here's a Civics in 60 to help explain⬇️

In addition to saving and improving lives in Africa, USAID also helped to prevent violent extremism from expanding across the globe. Financial cuts to America’s “soft” power lead to increased terrorist activity—putting Americans in danger at home and abroad.

Budgets reflect policy priorities. It makes no sense to cut U.S. Forest Service operations & research while spending nearly the same amount on a presidential ballroom. Today, I told the USFS Director there is no justification for such a cut to caring for our nation’s forests.

Today’s Armed Services Committee hearing with Defense Secretary Hegseth is very important – and overdue. Before it began, I shared a range of things I'm looking to hear about with CNN’s Kate Bolduan.

On this episode of Civics in 60, @hcrichardson.bsky.social and I discuss King Charles III’s visit to Congress this week and his reminder of the Magna Carta’s influence on self-government, individual liberty, and the rule of law.

Last week, I was proud to visit Mid Coast Hunger Prevention with Representative Jim McGovern to see the vital work they’re doing to ensure Maine families have access to healthy food. Their work, along with the countless Maine people who help others, strengthens our state and communities every day.

As energy costs continue to rise, this administration is canceling previously approved and vetted power projects. That’s not only bad for household budgets, but also, it’s incredibly difficult for energy companies that follow the rules and want to improve energy affordability.

251 years ago, the first shots of the American Revolution were fired.   On Patriots’ Day, we remember the courage shown at Lexington & Concord—as well as the inspiring idea that ordinary citizens can shape the course of history.

As Governor, I approached every issue with one basic question: what’s the problem we’re trying to solve? The SAVE America Act seeks to solve a problem that barely exists - voter fraud is much rarer than being hit by lightning - and instead, disenfranchises millions.

If anyone is “winning” America’s war in Iran, it would be Vladimir Putin. As the United States, Israel, and Iran military strikes cause the price of oil to spike, it’s meant $6 billion more in Russian oil sales. In the meantime, American troops remain in harm's way.

The glory of America is our shared journey, including the hard parts, toward a more perfect union. The administration's attempts to erase history, to try to keep us from understanding the historical events that shaped this country, amounts to spreading a damned lie.

Thanks to @PunchbowlNews for hosting me and Senator Ricketts for a discussion focused on finding common ground in polarized times. As former Governors, we understand the importance of compromise and reaching across the aisle to get results for Americans.

Our national parks tell the story of our nation – the good, the bad, but always the TRUTH. Attempting to erase or omit our dark chapters only works to promote a repeat of these sad periods in history. We must continue to share the full history of our great nation.

Our founders knew the importance of checks and balances – and the solemn responsibility of putting American lives at risk abroad. That’s why I voted in favor of Senator Tim Kaine’s War Powers Resolution. As the people’s representatives, only Congress has the power to declare war.

The Ayatollah was a brutal, repressive leader responsible for the deaths of hundreds of Americans and thousands of Iranians. I don’t mourn him for a second.   BUT the Constitution gives Congress – and only Congress – the power to declare war. More of my thoughts here ⬇️

Today, on #PresidentsDay, take advantage of free entry into our National Parks, truly “America’s Best Idea!” As Theodore Roosevelt reminded us, “cherish these natural wonders, cherish the natural resources, cherish the history.”

I was honored to meet with Maine Special Olympics Unified athletes and advocates this week. At it’s core, athletics is all about overcoming challenges and demonstrating resilience. I’m excited to see these athletes succeed in their events — and their lives!

Many of the tactics being used in ICE’s current operations are violating the 1st, 2nd, and 4th Amendments of the Constitution.   The most extreme actions of these masked agents are not only unprofessional and unnecessary, they are proving to be deadly.

While this past year has had its challenges, this season is a time to slow down and reflect with family and friends on all we have to be grateful for. From my family to yours, Happy Holidays and may all your days be merry and bright.

While my office is decorated with Maine artwork year-round, this holiday season we were excited to display ornaments drawn by the talented students from Zippel Elementary School in Presque Isle. Thank you for sending some Maine holiday spirit and cheer to the Capitol! 🎄✨

Jen Fullmer epitomizes the best of our U.S. Air Force. As a B-1 pilot, she flew dozens of combat missions to defend American interests. In Maine, she has worked to support her fellow veterans and give back to her community. Hear her story here ➡️ sen.gov/90503