All The Young Dudes, Redux

The value of historical context when writing community news. Case in point, the meteoric rise of a local politician, Ryan Fecteau

Meet The New Boss – – Same as the old boss: Fecteau returns as Maine House Speaker

Once again, State Rep. Ryan Fecteau of Biddeford will serve as Speaker of the Maine House of Representatives. During a recent interview, Fecteau said there was “stiff competition and a crowded field” this year from other Democratic lawmakers for the speakership of the 132nd Legislature. Fecteau, 32, who was “termed out” of office two years … Continue reading Meet The New Boss – – Same as the old boss: Fecteau returns as Maine House Speaker

Malon returns to Augusta for Biddeford

By RANDY SEAVER State Rep. Marc Malon (D-Biddeford) will soon begin his second term representing a portion of Biddeford in the Maine State House of Representatives. Malon is one of three lawmakers – all Democrats -- who make up the city’s legislative delegation. State Rep. Traci Gere is also returning to Augusta and represents Biddeford’s … Continue reading Malon returns to Augusta for Biddeford

A Fork in the Road: Sympathy for the Devil

As Chaucer once said, all good things must come to an end. And that’s where I find myself today: another fork in the road, another pivot point in my career. Over the past few days, several people have asked me why I started the Biddeford Gazette, and why I am no longer writing for Saco … Continue reading A Fork in the Road: Sympathy for the Devil

Running To Stand Still

While most political pundits and prognosticators in Maine are laser focused on the presidential and Congressional races, I am taking a more local approach and invite you to join me in thinking about the legislative races here in Biddeford, Saco and Old Orchard Beach. Between now and Election Day (Nov. 5), you can expect to … Continue reading Running To Stand Still

Top-20 local, political movers and shakers

After more than 12 years, I have finally gotten around to publishing an update about who I consider to be the most influential politicians, policy makers and staffers in the Biddeford-Saco area. The Top-20.

I Wanna Hold Your Hand

Two rather interesting events happened this week, each painting a troubling picture for loyal, solid Democrats at both the national and local level: Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia announced he would not seek reelection, and City Councilor Marty Grohman was elected to become Biddeford’s next mayor. What do Manchin and Grohman have in common? … Continue reading I Wanna Hold Your Hand

Ryan Fecteau: Spotlight Interview

Originally published in Saco Bay News Although he majored in political science and eventually became the Speaker of the Maine House of Representatives, Ryan Fecteau’s political journey had a rather innocuous and humble beginning. Fecteau, 30, said he first became interested in politics when he was appointed as a student representative to the Biddeford School … Continue reading Ryan Fecteau: Spotlight Interview

We were only freshmen

Democrats in Maine and across the country took a drubbing during last week's elections, but there were a few bright spots, including the city of Biddeford, where State Senator David Dutremble easily fended off a challenge by Republican James Booth; and where two political newcomers held their party's seats in the Maine Legislature. In fairness, … Continue reading We were only freshmen

Two for the show

Of the 151 seats in the Maine House of Representatives, only 19 of them will offer a primary option for voters on June 10. One of those 19 Primary Election challenges is taking place right here in Biddeford, and I know both of the Democrats who are battling for their party's favor. Of course, since … Continue reading Two for the show