Maine lawmakers react to capture of Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro
On Saturday, the United States captured Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro and removed him from the country.
President Trump says the U.S. will run Venezuela at least temporarily while tapping its oil reserve to sell to other countries.
Sen. Susan Collins released a statement citing that she was personally briefed on the operation however she voiced that Congress should have been informed earlier.
WABI news reports Congresswoman Chellie Pingree and Gov. Janet Mills both voiced concern over the operation and bypassing Congress.
Sen. Susan Collins Statement:
“Nicolas Maduro is a narco-terrorist and international drug trafficker who has been indicted twice in U.S. courts and who should stand trial in this country.”
“I was personally briefed by Secretary Rubio this morning. While there is still much we don’t know, this mission appears to have been a limited scope operation, run in conjunction with law enforcement, that effectively apprehended an international criminal.
“Congress should have been informed about the operation earlier and needs to be involved as this situation evolves. Maduro was a ruthless dictator who was not considered to be the legitimate leader of Venezuela by both the Biden and Trump administrations as well as by the European Union. The long-term success of today’s operation will depend on our ability to work with international and private sector partners.”
Congresswoman Chellie Pingree’s Statement:
“The Trump Administration’s decision to apprehend and detain President Maduro is a breathtaking abuse of power, a flagrant violation of the Constitution and international law, and a dangerous escalation that undermines long-standing diplomatic norms. Just a few weeks ago, Secretaries Rubio and Hegseth told every U.S. Senator that their actions in the region—which were already legally dubious—had nothing to do with regime change. That was clearly a lie.”
“Make no mistake: Nicolás Maduro is a ruthless dictator who has repeatedly engaged in antidemocratic practices—including rigging the 2024 election, as has been reported by many international observers. His policies have led to economic collapse, widespread human rights abuses, and the displacement of millions of Venezuelans, creating a humanitarian crisis that has had a devastating impact across the international stage. Maduro’s dangerous leadership and destructive actions deserve unequivocal international condemnation.”
“But the President does not have the authority to carry out military or paramilitary actions, seize foreign leaders, or pursue regime change without the explicit authorization of Congress. No such authorization was sought or granted. Bypassing Congress in this way is a direct violation of the Constitution and the War Powers Resolution, and it sets a deeply alarming precedent for unchecked executive power in matters of war and peace.”
“This reckless move risks destabilizing an already fragile region, puts millions of civilians at risk, and further isolates us from our friends and allies. I will demand answers and accountability from this Administration, and work with my colleagues to ensure that no further unauthorized actions are taken without congressional approval.”
To see Gov. Janet Mills statement follow the link below.
https://www.wabi.tv/2026/01/04/maine-leaders-react-after-us-captures-maduro/
Bar Harbor to extend lodging moratorium
The Bar Harbor town council voted to extend the lodging moratorium during a special meeting according to the Bar Harbor Story.
The publication says the town council voted in February to enact a 180-day moratorium on most lodgings and it was later renewed in July.
Those in opposition tell the paper this can negatively impact commercial use in the town.
Those in favor say this will give the town planning staff and board more time to push land use ordinances.
They tell the Bar Harbor story the changes could limit the transition of homes to lodging from now until June.
Maine’s minimum wage increasing
According to WABI news, Maine’s minimum wage went up at the beginning of 2026.
The Maine Department of Labor announced the state minimum wage increase for this year is 45 cents, making the new minimum wage $15.10 per hour.
The new “tip wage” is now $7.55 per hour.
The new minimum salary threshold for salaried workers exempt from overtime is now $45,300 a year.
AIO’s Fill the Strand returns on Jan. 19th
AIO’s Food and Energy Assistance will bring back the ‘Fill the Strand’ event for the sixth year.
Leaders tell Star 97.7 food and funds will be raised to benefit their programs like energy assistance, weekend meals and the diaper assistance programs.
On Jan. 19 they challenge the community to fill every seat in the historic theater with bags of food and funds.
In years past, AIO has raised over $165,000 and the goal this year is to raise $40,000.
The snow date is on Jan. 26.
https://www.aiofoodpantry.org/strand
Bring your device to lunch
A popular event will return to Ellsworth for three sessions.
The ‘Bring Your Device to Lunch’ session is hosted by the Ellsworth Digital Inclusion Task Force designed to provide a fun and relaxing education experience to help people maneuver through their digital devices.
Whether it’s taking pictures, figuring out streaming or working through telemedicine, experts will help you understand today’s technology with a delicious light lunch provided.
The first session will be at Loaves and Fishes on Jan. 8 from noon to 1:30 so to call and register dial 207-664-7110.
- The February session will be held at the Ellsworth Public Library at 20 State Street on February 12 from noon to 1:30 PM. Call 207.667.6363. to register.
- The March session will be held at the Union River Center for Innovation at 415 Water Street on March 12 from noon to 1:30 PM. Call 207.664.7110. to register.
Blue Hill Library hosts ‘I Spy Scavenger Hunt’
Starting Monday, Jan. 5 the Blue Hill Library will challenge you for their ‘I Spy Scavenger Hunt.’
Participants can visit the library’s circulation desk to get the checklist and scan out the library quietly to see if you can find all of the items depicted in the clues.
If you think you can find them all, get a headstart.
The challenge will be in place all the way until March 31.
