Graduate student workers at the University of Maine have engaged in ongoing negotiations with the University of Maine System (UMS) since Dec. 20 2023. The University of Maine Graduate Workers Union (UMGWU) claims the extended gridlock over certain issues, including potential cuts to essential support services such as visa and tax assistance, puts international graduate students at risk amid ongoing federal immigration uncertainties. Yet, UMaine claims the hold up comes from financial restrictions placed on the university by the federal government.

UMGWU members assert that the prolonged stalemate is not only undermining their economic security but also stripping away vital support services. 

“We are demanding that UMS commit to bargaining over the impacts of any cuts to critical resources currently relied upon by international graduate workers, such as visa assistance,” said Tricia Hall Collins, a Ph.D student in the Earth and Climate Science department.

Collins argued that international graduate students depend on resources such as relocation assistance and visa support to succeed- and that threats to these services during times of heightened federal scrutiny are “unacceptable.”

“The response from UMS has been incredibly disappointing. International graduate workers have come to bargaining sessions numerous times to directly relay their concerns and speak to the value of currently-offered programming. UMS has continued to insist that they maintain the power to unilaterally cut these programs and then will only ‘meet and discuss’ the impacts – this is unacceptable to us,” said Collins. “And to be clear, we have moved toward UMS’s position substantially to try to strike a compromise.”

Charlotte Begouen Demeaux, a graduate student in Marine Sciences and dual French-Canadian citizen, echoed these concerns and criticized the university’s lack of urgency.

“I first heard about the union in 2022, and it gave me a space to voice my concerns and feel heard,” said Demeaux, who recalled arriving at UMaine during a time when skyrocketing housing prices, expensive and limited university health insurance and the challenges of navigating the U.S. visa process compounded her difficulties. Demeaux also shared that the Office of International Programs had once been a crucial resource, but growing fears over the future have spurred her to seek stronger institutional support.

In her correspondence with Chancellor Malloy’s office, Demeaux made a direct appeal for impact bargaining, a proposal that would require the university to negotiate any changes to services provided to international graduate workers before they are implemented. 

“Every day that UMaine refuses to engage on these topics makes us feel more unwelcome,” said Demeaux.

Demeaux’s email, detailing the anxiety of potentially losing her ability to remain in the United States, received a brief reply from Rowena Clukey of the Chancellor’s Office stating only that it was “not appropriate” for the Chancellor to address matters related to active negotiations.

Peter Howe, a Ph.D. candidate in Forestry Resources and member of UMGWU-UAW, reinforced the union’s concerns, warning that the delay is having far-reaching implications. 

“We as grad workers want to be here, and we want to see the university thrive. But without a strong financial plan for improving the lives of grad workers, research and education will suffer greatly,” said Howe. 

Howe stressed that the prolonged absence of a contract has already pushed many students to consider transferring to other institutions. 

“While the University tells us we’re valued workers and community members, after 500-plus days without a contract, we’re still waiting for them to show us,” said Howe.

In response, University Representative Samantha Warren, who is Chief External Government Affairs Officer for UMS, insisted that UMS values the important contributions of graduate student workers. 

“We continue to bargain in good faith and are committed to achieving an agreement that is responsive to the requests of these respected student workers and the operational needs and increasingly constrained resources of our public institutions. As a public university system, our ability to improve work opportunities and conditions without shifting costs to our students and their families in the form of unreasonable tuition increases largely depends on our State appropriation, which was recently held flat by the Legislature for the coming biennium (FY26 and FY27), and our federal grants and contracts, millions of dollars of which have been paused or even terminated in the past three months,” said Warren.

Warren also touched on the challenges facing international students and the university’s attempts to provide support.

“Given the changing federal landscape and immigration enforcement activities, we are sensitive to the incredible uncertainty our international students are increasingly experiencing. We continue to make resources and additional support available to our international students and all students, including through the UMaine Office of International Programs (OIP),” said Warren.

Warren then emphasized the university’s commitment to free speech and peaceful assembly.

“Our System will continue to be unequivocal in protecting and promoting the Constitutional right to free speech, which also includes the right to free expression and free assembly, provided those activities do not violate the law, threaten public safety or disrupt our universities’ ability to operate. We also believe that with that fundamental right to free speech also comes the opportunity and the obligation to listen,” said Warren.

However, UMGWU-UAW members argue that financial constraints do not justify a 500-day delay in negotiations or the refusal to enter into impact bargaining over essential international support services.

“UMaine has repeatedly delayed getting back to our bargaining team with counter-proposals,” said Demeaux. 

She recalled that even after submitting economic proposals more than two months ago, UMGWU-UAW has yet to receive a concrete response. Demeaux stressed that recent federal actions, including unexplained visa revocations, have exacerbated fears among international students. 

“In these terrifying times, when news headlines are filled with reports of visa revocations and minor infractions spiraling into major issues, the failure of UMaine to commit to impact bargaining is not just a policy shortfall — it’s a threat to our very ability to remain here,” Demeaux said.

Howe also highlighted the potential long-term impact on the university’s academic mission.

 “Without graduate workers, this university cannot accomplish its mission,” he warned, adding that the loss of top talent due to protracted negotiations could significantly curtail UMaine’s research and teaching capacities.

While the administration works within the confines of its fiscal reality, UMGWU-UAW representatives insist that a failure to secure a comprehensive contract risks not only compromising the financial well-being of graduate workers but also undermining the integrity and global competitiveness of the university.

With each day that passes without a resolution, international graduate workers — already grappling with the challenges of maintaining visas and navigating U.S. immigration policies — face the growing possibility of having to abandon their academic pursuits. The stalled negotiations have not only heightened personal anxieties, but have also drawn public attention to broader questions about the institution’s commitment to its most vulnerable community members. 

Union supporters have mobilized campus action. In her closing remarks, Collins called on the UMaine community — students, faculty, and staff, to join a rally scheduled for April 24 at MLK Plaza on the Orono campus stating, “We need the entire university community behind us as we stand up for international graduate workers.”

The University of Maine Communications and Journalism (CMJ) department, which began as the Department of Public Speaking in 1915 and is one of the oldest programs of its kind in the country, is preparing to relocate from their offices at Dunn Hall across the courtyard to Corbett Hall.  The shift comes as the university gears up to launch a new PhD program in nursing, a development that has triggered a broader reallocation of campus space. The Maine Campus interviewed several faculty members of the CMJ department for further insight into the move.

Dr. Judith Rosenbaum-Andre, chair of the CMJ department, explained that the decision was part of a larger campus-wide realignment driven by the expanding needs of the nursing program. 

“We were asked whether we would like to move, and while we love our current space, especially the offices with the river view, we also recognize that moving to Corbett offers advantages in space and future planning,” said Rosenbaum-Andre. 

Rosenbaum-Andre noted that over the past few years, the nursing department has received significant grant funding, enabling it to expand its infrastructure in Dunn Hall. 

“This has meant that CMJ has gradually lost some of its own space, like our classrooms in the basement and on the first floor,” said Rosenbaum-Andre.

The move, according to her, was not forced upon CMJ but was a collective decision reached after discussions with college administrators. 

“When Corbett Hall became available, discussions with the dean and facilities staff made it clear that relocating CMJ, along with other CLAS units, would simplify room assignments and future planning for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences,” said Rosenbaum-Andre.

Graduate Coordinator and Associate Professor Dr. Laura Rickard described the relocation as an opportunity to reimagine the department’s space and strengthen community ties. 

“The move to Corbett provides us a chance to re-think how our space best supports our CMJ community,” said Rickard.  

She outlined plans for the new location, noting that Corbett Hall will include several meeting rooms and conference spaces that can double as classrooms. 

“We have designed a new ‘flex’ space intended for multiple uses, from practicing speeches in CMJ 103 to working on group projects or simply catching up between classes,” said Rickard. “Our hope is that this new room will encourage students to feel comfortable making Corbett a place to congregate.”

Professor Michael Socolow offered a more measured perspective on the transition. 

“I’m not sure there will be a significant impact, because much of Corbett’s layout mirrors that of Dunn Hall,” said Socolow. “There are aspects of the new space that might better foster community, but others might not. It’s hard to predict until the department has fully settled in.” 

When asked whether the move reflected a broader pattern of the university prioritizing STEM and medical programs over humanities and communication studies, Socolow expressed uncertainty. 

“I don’t think this instance can be used to support that argument for a lot of reasons,” said Socolow. “Rather than prioritizing disciplines, this might be a case where bringing together departments in the College of Earth, Life and Health Sciences, which was only renamed in 2023, with the School of Nursing made the most sense from a financial and organizational perspective.”

While some critics have argued that the university is diminishing its commitment to humanities by reallocating prime space to growing STEM and health programs, CMJ faculty that were interviewed insist that the decision was reached through a democratic process and with a focus on long-term benefits. 

“We had a committee of faculty members, including graduate faculty, who looked at blueprints, toured the space and agreed on the office assignments,” said Rickard. “It was a collective decision, and we believe it positions us well for future growth.”

As the campus continues its extensive renovations — which UMaine Facilities is calling “the big move” — the implications of the CMJ relocation are still unfolding. Faculty and students alike are watching closely to see how the new environment will impact daily routines and academic collaboration.

The transition is seen by many as a necessary step to accommodate the university’s expanding health sciences programs while also offering CMJ a chance to redefine its own community space.

A series of federal actions have rocked Maine in recent weeks following a public exchange between Governor Janet Mills and President Donald Trump over the state’s policies regarding transgender athletes, federal funding and trade relations.

The dispute first made national headlines in February when Trump confronted Mills at a National Governors Association meeting over Maine’s policy allowing transgender girls to compete in girls’ sports. Trump, citing an executive order restricting transgender athletes in federally funded programs, threatened to pull education funding if the state did not comply. Mills pushed back.

“I’ll see you in court,” she told the president at the White House on Feb. 21.

Speaking to News Center Maine on Monday, Mills shared that she entered the meeting hoping to find common ground, but was met with “offensive, aggressive statements” about Maine. “It’s unfortunate that he [Trump] chose to do that,” she said.

In the weeks that followed, the federal government moved swiftly, initiating several actions that will affect Maine residents. The Social Security Administration abruptly ended the state’s

“Enumeration at Birth” program, which allows hospitals to help parents register newborns for Social Security numbers before leaving the hospital. The decision sparked outrage from healthcare providers and parents, prompting Acting SSA Commissioner Lee Dudek to reverse the policy and issue a public apology.

The Trump Administration also attempted to cut $4.5 million in funding for the Maine Sea Grant program, a decades-old initiative supporting marine research and industry. Lawmakers, including Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, criticized the decision, arguing that the program fuels the state’s economy. After widespread backlash, the administration backed down, agreeing to reconsider the funding.

Maine’s education policies also came under federal scrutiny. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services launched investigations into the Maine’s compliance with Title IX, arguing that allowing transgender athletes to compete in girls’ sports denies equal opportunity to female student-athletes. The findings put millions of dollars in federal funding at risk. Mills and Attorney General Aaron Frey rejected the federal determination, arguing that Maine law protects against gender identity discrimination, and that the administration’s stance is politically motivated.

In an interview with the Maine Campus, Secretary of State Shenna Bellows said the recent wave of executive orders and federal actions have felt “unorganized and potentially punitive.” She criticized the administration for making abrupt decisions, only to reverse them shortly after, pointing to the Social Security issue as an example.

“We can all agree that government should be as efficient and effective as possible,” said Bellows. “But eliminating whole programs, funding streams to farmers or to the university, and making decisions and then reversing them the next day doesn’t make any sense from an operational perspective.”

Bellows also raised concerns over the role of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a controversial initiative overseen by Trump-ally Elon Musk. She argued that the department is acting outside constitutional bounds by making funding decisions traditionally reserved for Congress.

“They don’t seem to understand how government should actually function,” said Bellows. “They are not actually a department. They haven’t been appointed or confirmed by Congress and their authority is unprecedented.”

She also noted that DOGE eliminated federal election security funding, which states previously used to bolster cybersecurity measures against foreign interference.

“Zeroing out that funding may save taxpayers money in the short run, but in the long run, opening up our infrastructure to potential attack could cost us greatly,” said Bellows.

Further straining state-federal relations, the Trump Administration announced new tariffs on

Canadian imports, a move that Maine business leaders warned would negatively impact the state. Maine’s economy relies heavily on trade with Canada, particularly in the energy and tourism sectors. After pushback from lawmakers and business leaders, the administration postponed some tariffs until April 2, though uncertainty remains.

With multiple federal investigations still active and the threat of funding cuts looming, Maine’s Interactions with Washington show no signs of easing. However, Bellows remains optimistic that Maine’s resilience would outlast the political turmoil.

“I know things are uncertain and genuinely scary right now,” said Bellows. “I also know that we are a strong community with a powerful constitution that serves us well. I have faith that good people coming together are going to restore common sense and rise above the chaos.”

A series of federal actions have rocked Maine in recent weeks following a public exchange between Governor Janet Mills and President Donald Trump over the state’s policies regarding transgender athletes, federal funding and trade relations.

The dispute first made national headlines in February when Trump confronted Mills at a National Governors Association meeting over Maine’s policy allowing transgender girls to compete in girls’ sports. Trump, citing an executive order restricting transgender athletes in federally funded programs, threatened to pull education funding if the state did not comply. Mills pushed back.

“I’ll see you in court,” she told the president at the White House on Feb. 21.

Speaking to News Center Maine on Monday, Mills shared that she entered the meeting hoping to find common ground, but was met with “offensive, aggressive statements” about Maine. “It’s unfortunate that he [Trump] chose to do that,” she said.

In the weeks that followed, the federal government moved swiftly, initiating several actions that will affect Maine residents. The Social Security Administration abruptly ended the state’s

“Enumeration at Birth” program, which allows hospitals to help parents register newborns for Social Security numbers before leaving the hospital. The decision sparked outrage from healthcare providers and parents, prompting Acting SSA Commissioner Lee Dudek to reverse the policy and issue a public apology.

The Trump Administration also attempted to cut $4.5 million in funding for the Maine Sea Grant program, a decades-old initiative supporting marine research and industry. Lawmakers, including Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, criticized the decision, arguing that the program fuels the state’s economy. After widespread backlash, the administration backed down, agreeing to reconsider the funding.

Maine’s education policies also came under federal scrutiny. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services launched investigations into the Maine’s compliance with Title IX, arguing that allowing transgender athletes to compete in girls’ sports denies equal opportunity to female student-athletes. The findings put millions of dollars in federal funding at risk. Mills and Attorney General Aaron Frey rejected the federal determination, arguing that Maine law protects against gender identity discrimination, and that the administration’s stance is politically motivated.

In an interview with the Maine Campus, Secretary of State Shenna Bellows said the recent wave of executive orders and federal actions have felt “unorganized and potentially punitive.” She criticized the administration for making abrupt decisions, only to reverse them shortly after, pointing to the Social Security issue as an example.

“We can all agree that government should be as efficient and effective as possible,” said Bellows. “But eliminating whole programs, funding streams to farmers or to the university, and making decisions and then reversing them the next day doesn’t make any sense from an operational perspective.”

Bellows also raised concerns over the role of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a controversial initiative overseen by Trump-ally Elon Musk. She argued that the department is acting outside constitutional bounds by making funding decisions traditionally reserved for Congress.

“They don’t seem to understand how government should actually function,” said Bellows. “They are not actually a department. They haven’t been appointed or confirmed by Congress and their authority is unprecedented.”

She also noted that DOGE eliminated federal election security funding, which states previously used to bolster cybersecurity measures against foreign interference.

“Zeroing out that funding may save taxpayers money in the short run, but in the long run, opening up our infrastructure to potential attack could cost us greatly,” said Bellows.

Further straining state-federal relations, the Trump Administration announced new tariffs on

Canadian imports, a move that Maine business leaders warned would negatively impact the state. Maine’s economy relies heavily on trade with Canada, particularly in the energy and tourism sectors. After pushback from lawmakers and business leaders, the administration postponed some tariffs until April 2, though uncertainty remains.

With multiple federal investigations still active and the threat of funding cuts looming, Maine’s Interactions with Washington show no signs of easing. However, Bellows remains optimistic that Maine’s resilience would outlast the political turmoil.

“I know things are uncertain and genuinely scary right now,” said Bellows. “I also know that we are a strong community with a powerful constitution that serves us well. I have faith that good people coming together are going to restore common sense and rise above the chaos.”

The University of Maine is currently undergoing a Title IX compliance review by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), sparking a range of responses from students and campus organizations. The review, tied to an executive order issued by the Trump Administration on Feb. 5, seeks to determine if UMaine will enforce the ban of transgender athletes’ participation in women’s sports. This developing situation has raised concerns across campus, particularly among LGBTQ+ students and student-athletes. While UMaine leadership has stated it will fully cooperate with the review, Maine Governor Janet Mills has expressed opposition to federal intervention.

Many students have voiced strong opinions about the federal review and its implications for trans inclusion in sports. Casper Cowan, a psychology and women’s & gender studies student, criticized the federal government’s involvement, arguing that it contradicts the state’s stance on trans athletes’ participation.

“It’s kind of ridiculous in a way that our executive branch is going after the state representatives for representing the state to their best extent,” Cowan said. “Our people have spoken time and time again. A lot of schools in this state are accepting of trans students participating in sports that they want to participate in and feel comfortable participating in, and Mills is just representing that state interest. It’s insane that federal policies are trying to dictate what our state wants.”

Kass Belaya, a computer science student and president of Wilde Stein, UMaine’s LGBTQ+ student organization, expressed frustration over what they see as government overreach. While they noted they were speaking as an individual rather than on behalf of Wilde Stein, Belaya described the compliance review as an attempt to impose ideological beliefs through federal power.

“It’s an outrage that the Trump Administration can force their beliefs onto the rest of the country, with no regard for civil liberties,” Belaya said. “The very fact that they are attempting to threaten the university’s funding is proof that their policies are about forcing compliance and have never been about protecting freedoms.”

Other students pointed to the broader political implications of the compliance review. Lincoln Tiner, a history student, voiced strong concerns about what they see as a pattern of escalating attacks on marginalized communities.

“What’s happening in our country right now is terrifying and the continuing attacks on the trans community—which significantly contributed to President Trump and other Republicans’ elections—are disgusting, unfounded and the antithesis of everything that Mainers stand for,” Tiner said. “Sadly, our community anticipated that these attacks would worsen with his re-election. If they’re coming after us, I assure you that no matter what they say, it won’t be long until you’re next.”

Beyond individual student reactions, UMaine student organizations are also responding to the compliance review. While Wilde Stein has not issued an official statement, its president has indicated strong opposition to the federal investigation. The University of Maine Student Government (UMSG) has taken a more measured approach, emphasizing communication and vigilance as the situation unfolds.

Keegan Tripp, president of UMSG, outlined the student government’s position, stressing the importance of maintaining communication with university leadership.

“As all levels of governance on this issue—from federal departments to the state, to the system, to the University—work to determine what these developments mean for our campus, there remains much we don’t know yet,” Tripp said. “My Vice President and I will continue to be in consistent contact with Student Life, who in turn are in touch with the University President’s office. Our position is to stay vigilant, maintain communication with the administration and ensure that as these very new developments unfold, we continue to express student concerns and share information as it becomes available.”

UMaine Administration has acknowledged the compliance review and reiterated its commitment to working with federal agencies while also supporting students. While the University has not taken a public stance on the specific regulations under review, officials have emphasized their commitment to compliance with federal law.

As the review progresses, students and organizations on campus continue to navigate its potential impact, with discussions unfolding in classrooms, student meetings and online forums. Many students remain deeply concerned about how the federal stance on Title IX will shape UMaine’s policies and funding in the future.

The University of Maine announced on Jan. 17 that a criminal justice major will be introduced in Fall 2025, expanding its academic offerings to meet growing student interest and workforce demand. Previously available only as a minor, the new Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice will provide students with a comprehensive education in criminology, law enforcement and the justice system, preparing them for careers in a rapidly-evolving field.

For years, UMaine students interested in criminal justice pursued the minor or opted for a sociology major with a concentration in law and criminal justice. However, the demand for a full-fledged major remained strong, leading faculty and administrators to push for an expanded program. 

“Institutionally, for many years, the University has been proposing this program due to student demand and interest,” said UMaine Professor of Sociology Karyn Sporer. “Criminal justice and criminology are high-interest programs for students across the country and UMaine was lacking in being competitive in the New England market because we didn’t have the program.”

Though the University initially received approval for the minor, the major was not approved until this year. Sporer credited faculty persistence and strong student demand for the Board of Trustees’ decision.

Beyond student interest, the program also aims to address workforce shortages in Maine’s justice system. With many positions in law enforcement, corrections and victim advocacy unfilled, UMaine has expressed hope that its graduates will help bridge the gap while also bringing a critical and well-rounded perspective to the field. 

“There are a lot of unfilled jobs in the justice system in Maine, and this is one way to help fill that gap,” said Sporer. “What we want to do in this program is make sure the people going into the field are not just well-educated but also great workers and representatives of the justice system—working for equity and honoring each person they come in contact with.”

Unlike some traditional criminal justice programs, this new UMaine major will be housed in the sociology department, emphasizing a critical-thinking approach to the field.

“We break down institutions—that’s the foundation of our program,” said Sporer. “How do you take a system whose philosophy is punishment and make punishment just one piece of criminal justice? There is also rehabilitation, support for victims and survivors of crime.”

The program will also offer opportunities for students to conduct research with faculty, gaining hands-on experience in sociological analysis of the justice system. Faculty-led advising will allow for personalized mentorship throughout students’ academic careers.

Even before the major is officially listed in the University course catalog, Sporer reports that interest among students seems high.

“Students are emailing me every day, asking to declare the major,” Sporer said. “It’s official, but not on the books yet.”

With the first cohort set to enroll in Fall 2025, UMaine’s new criminal justice major is poised to make a lasting impact—both for students eager to enter the field and for the communities they will serve.

President-elect Donald Trump started assembling his administration ahead of the upcoming Jan. 21 inauguration, unveiling a diverse slate of non-confirmed cabinet and advisory appointments. The selections feature a mix of political veterans, private-sector leaders and loyal allies, reflecting Trump’s commitment to shaping a team that aligns with his policy priorities. From national security to environmental policy, these appointees are set to play pivotal roles in steering the direction of federal government agencies. While many of the choices have drawn praise for their expertise, other selections remain controversial. 

Administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Lee Zeldin, former U.S. Representative from New York

Zeldin would oversee the EPA, which engages in research and education initiatives regarding environmental issues. The organization is responsible for enforcing federal environmental laws, regulating pollution and overseeing programs to protect air, water and land resources. 

National Security Advisor – Michael Waltz, U.S. Representative from Florida

Waltz would provide direct counsel to the president on national security matters, including defense, intelligence and international relations. He would also be responsible for helping coordinate efforts across military and intelligence committees, such as the Homeland Security Council (HSC) and the National Security Council (NSC). This role does not require Senate confirmation.

Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy – Stephen Miller, former senior advisor

Miller would oversee the development and execution of the president’s legislative and policy agenda, coordinating with federal agencies and Congress to align administration priorities with national initiatives.

Department of Government Efficiency – Vivek Ramaswamy, biotech entrepreneur, and Elon Musk, technology innovator

This newly proposed department would be tasked with identifying and eliminating inefficiencies in federal operations, reducing waste and streamlining government programs to improve productivity and cost-effectiveness.

Secretary of Homeland Security – Kristi Noem, Governor of South Dakota

Noem would manage the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees border security, cybersecurity, disaster response, counter-terrorism and immigration enforcement. The role requires balancing public safety with civil liberties.

Secretary of Defense – Pete Hegseth, Fox News commentator and Army National Guard Veteran

Hegseth would lead the Department of Defense, overseeing all branches of the military and implementing defense policies. This includes managing the Pentagon’s budget and ensuring readiness for national security threats.

Director of National Intelligence – Tulsi Gabbard, former U.S. Representative from Hawaii

If appointed, Gabbard would coordinate the activities of the nation’s intelligence agencies, synthesizing intelligence reports for the president and advising on threats to national security. She would oversee agencies like the CIA, NSA and FBI intelligence branches.

Attorney General – Pam Bondi, former Florida Attorney General

Bondi would head the Department of Justice as the nation’s top law enforcement officer. Responsibilities include overseeing federal prosecutors, managing legal affairs and ensuring the enforcement of U.S. laws and the Constitution.

Secretary of Health and Human Services – Robert F. Kennedy Jr., environmental lawyer

Kennedy would manage the department overseeing health programs like Medicare, Medicaid and public health initiatives. These initiatives include but are not limited to disease control, healthcare policy and social services for vulnerable populations.

Secretary of the Interior – Doug Burgum, Governor of North Dakota

Burgum would lead the Department of the Interior, managing the nation’s public lands, national parks and wildlife refuges. He would also oversee natural resource conservation and Native American Relations.

Secretary of Energy – Chris Wright, CEO of Liberty Energy

Wright would oversee energy policies, including the development of renewable resources, nuclear safety and energy infrastructure. The department also funds scientific research to support innovation in energy technology.

Secretary of Education – Linda McMahon, retired professional wrestler

If appointed, McMahon would serve as the next secretary of the Department of Education. Her role would entail administering federal education policies and distributing funding to schools. She would also oversee programs aimed at improving national education standards, workforce readiness and access to higher education.

As the Senate begins confirmation hearings following the presidential inauguration process and as Trump’s team takes shape, the nation will watch closely to see how these appointees will navigate their roles and responsibilities. 

While the appointments reflect a bold vision for the future, they also raise questions about how the administration will address pressing challenges in areas like healthcare, defense and the environment. Regardless of political leanings, the coming months will define the trajectory of this presidency and the policies that will shape the nation.

The 2024 election season delivered a mix of expected and surprising outcomes. With Donald Trump re-elected as the 47th President of the United States, closely contested congressional races in Maine and shifts in the state legislature, students were left feeling a mix of hope and disillusionment. For many, this election not only underscored the polarization of the country but also highlighted the growing dissatisfaction with the traditional two-party system.

According to the Associated Press, Trump secured 312 electoral votes, and Kamala Harris earned 226, ensuring his return to the White House. 

For international affairs student AJ Mauser, the outcome was deeply unsettling, sparking fears for both domestic policy and America’s role in international affairs..

“I was terrified,” Mauser said. “It just goes to show the amount of fear that this man has surrounding him…because I know that the President-Elect is going to cause chaos and spread hate all across America and instill fear in our allies internationally.”

Mauser also pointed specifically to concerns about NATO, fearing a potential U.S. withdrawal under Trump’s leadership.

“Countries like the UK and Germany and France…are worried that the USA will no longer be involved in NATO,” Mauser said. Domestically, he criticized Trump’s rumored cabinet selections, calling them “a mockery of everything that America knows and respects.”

Others on campus offered varying opinions. Jack McGlincey, an international affairs student, approached the election results analytically.

“Many people my age that I know appeared very shocked by the election results, but between the two candidates, historically, polling has underestimated President Trump,” said McGlincey. 

McGlincey emphasized missteps by the Harris campaign, citing inconsistent messaging and overreliance on celebrity endorsements. 

“It appeared that the campaign didn’t work on putting Harris center stage ‘til the end,” McGlincey noted.

Reflecting on the campaigns, McGlincey posed a general question: “Is this election a success of the Trump campaign or a failure of the Harris campaign?”

Various Maine election results mirrored polarized national dynamics. Independent Senator Angus King won re-election to the U.S. Senate, maintaining his influential position in Washington. King’s victory reinforced his reputation as a bipartisan figure able to appeal to both Democratic and Republican voters.

In the 2nd Congressional District, Democratic Representative Jared Golden narrowly retained his seat in a highly competitive race against Republican challenger Austin Theriault. The outcome highlighted the district’s status as a political battleground and underscored the importance of appealing to its diverse electorate.

At the local level, elections for the Maine Legislature brought notable shifts, particularly in the Senate, where Republicans gained ground. While Democrats retained control of the House, the tighter margins could require greater bipartisan cooperation to advance legislative priorities.

Issues such as education funding, healthcare and renewable energy are expected to dominate upcoming legislative sessions. For students, these outcomes may directly impact tuition rates, state grants and employment opportunities in emerging industries.

The 2024 election results ignited discussions across the Orono campus about the state of American democracy and the role of young voters in shaping its future. While opinions vary, there is a shared recognition of the stakes. 

For some, like McGlincey, the results serve as a reminder of the complexities of electoral politics. His analysis underscores a broader takeaway: Elections are not just about winning and losing but about the choices that shape the direction of the country. For others, it is an omen of things to come. 

“We, as Americans, elected this. So this is all on us,” Mauser said.

The nation is nearing the end of election season. On November 5th, the Collins Center for the Arts will be filled with voters waiting to cast their ballot. As of Oct. 22,  nearly 19 million Americans have cast early ballots in the presidential election, according to the Associated Press. Who will emerge victorious is anybody’s guess. But who are the candidates and what are their major policy stances?

Kamala Harris 

Kamala Harris is an American attorney and politician who is currently serving as the 49th Vice President of the United States. She is the first woman, Black person and person of South Asian descent to hold this office. She was born on Oct. 20, 1964 in Oakland, California, and after graduating college began her career in law — serving as District Attorney of San Francisco and later as California’s Attorney General. In 2016, she was elected as a representative of California to the U.S. Senate, where she focused on issues like criminal justice reform, health care, and immigration. In 2020, Harris was chosen as Joe Biden’s running mate in the presidential election, which resulted in her historic vice presidency.

Here are key policies, taken from her official website: 

Economic Policy: Create an “Opportunity Economy” with tax cuts for the middle class and investments in clean energy. 

Housing: Build 3 million new homes, including affordable units, and offer assistance to first-time homebuyers. 

Healthcare: Expand the Child Tax Credit and cap childcare costs. 

Reproductive Rights: Support national abortion protections and codify Roe v. Wade. 

Climate Change: Invest in green energy and support electric vehicle adoption. 

Labor Rights: Back labor unions and workers’ rights legislation. 

Supreme Court Reform: Propose ethical rules and consider term limits for justices.

Donald Trump

Donald Trump is a businessman and media personality who was the 45th President of the United States. Born in 1946 in Queens, New York, he entered his family’s real estate business called the Trump Organization. He later became known for his independent ventures in real estate and television. His term as president drew both support and criticism regarding his administration’s policies on immigration, deregulation and foreign relations. He remains an influential and polarizing figure in American politics.

Here are key policies, taken from his official website:

Border Security: Complete the border wall and implement the largest deportation operation in U.S. history. 

Economic Policy: Reduce inflation, achieve energy dominance, and transform the U.S. into a manufacturing superpower. 

Tax Reform: Introduce significant tax cuts for workers and eliminate taxes on tips. 

Constitutional Rights: Defend the Constitution, including freedoms of speech and religion and uphold the right to bear arms. 

National Defense: Strengthen and modernize the military to ensure it remains the most powerful globally. 

Social Programs: Protect Social Security and Medicare without cuts or changes to the retirement age.

The polls place these two candidates as the frontrunners to win, but other names have also entered the presidential race and continue to draw voters. 

Chase Oliver

Chase Oliver is an American political figure and the Libertarian Party’s nominee in the 2024 U.S. presidential election. Born in Nashville, Tennessee in 1985, Oliver began his career in the restaurant sector and later transitioned to work in import shipping. He became politically active in the early 2000s due to his opposition to the Iraq War, which led him to join the Libertarian Party in 2010. Oliver has since run as a Libertarian candidate in Georgia’s fifth Congressional District in 2020 and in the 2022 U.S. Senate race, where his share of the vote contributed to a runoff. Oliver lives in Atlanta, Georgia, and continues his involvement in Libertarian politics. 

Here are key platforms, as taken from his official website: 

Education: Decentralizing education by abolishing the Department of Education, shifting control to states and communities. 

Healthcare: Reducing healthcare costs by expanding Health Savings Accounts and allowing cross-state insurance purchasing. 

Gun Control: Defending Second Amendment rights and opposing restrictive gun control measures 

Foreign Policy: Ending military interventions to focus on free trade and global goodwill.

Jill Stein 

Jill Stein is a physician, environmental health advocate and political activist known for her work with the Green Party. Born in 1950 in Chicago, she attended Harvard University for both her undergraduate and medical degrees. Stein practiced internal medicine for over two decades before moving into environmental activism, where she focused on public health risks from environmental pollutants. 

Here are key platforms, as taken from her official website: 

People’s Economy: Create an Economic Bill of Rights to ensure living-wage jobs, housing, healthcare, education, and secure retirement for all. 

Labor: Support workers’ rights, fair wages, and improved working conditions, with a focus on strengthening unions. 

Housing: Increase affordable housing availability and work to end homelessness. 

Healthcare: Implement a universal, single-payer healthcare system to cover all Americans. 

Prisons and Policing: Reform criminal justice to end mass incarceration, abolish private prisons, and address systemic racism. 

Social Justice: Advocate for equality and justice for marginalized groups, including women, people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people with disabilities.

Immigration: Support humane immigration policies that respect human rights and create a path to citizenship. 

Climate and Energy: Declare a climate emergency and advance a Green New Deal to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2035.

While the polls show Harris and Trump as the favorites to win, Stein has seen some traction among younger voters as a possible alternative to the divisiveness of the two parties. 

“Stein’s platform appeals to me because, like many Americans— including the first ones— I feel that the two-party system is tearing our nation apart. There is no ‘lesser evil’ when both candidates hail from parties that are corrupted by tech, commerce and weapons corporations,” said UMaine student Chance Lauer. Since the DNC uses its influence to undermine the Stein Ware campaign, I really don’t want to fuel the political machines that are further degrading our country.” 

On campus and across the nation, voters face a choice between presidential candidates that could impact the future of this country forever. Regardless of the issues driving them, it is clear that Americans are making their voice heard as Election Day approaches.

Election Day is right around the corner, which means University of Maine students and other Maine voters alike have the chance to weigh in on five referendum questions that could reshape Maine’s future. This guide serves as an introduction to each ballot question, supplemented by a variety of student opinions on each topic. 

“The referendum questions are an interesting way that citizens can impact policy decisions or spending within Maine. Only 26 states have this, so it’s not the case that every state allows their citizens to directly weigh in on policy in this way,” says UMaine Political Science Professor Rob Glover.

The questions on the November ballot are not only directly decided by Maine constituents, but some of them were even brought forth by citizens who are trying to make a difference in their community.

Question 1: Do you want to set a $5,000 limit for giving to political action committees that spend money independently to support or defeat candidates for office?

In January 2024, a citizen–led initiative with 75,000 signatures was filed to limit the amount of money political action committees (PACs) can contribute to the election (or defeat) of a political candidate. The initiative would not impact the amount of money spent by individuals or households — which is unlimited. 

“I support setting a $5k limit for PACs that spend money independently to support or defeat candidates for office,” said UMaine Journalism Student Alexa Perocillo. “I support this because unless they make it clear as to where the money is going specifically, there should be a limit,” she continued. 

“It’s important for our democracy, in order to maintain our Founding Fathers’ goals of ‘one person, one vote’ that we limit how much money can be funneled into PACs. Money is power, and someone’s wealth should not grant them a greater voice in democracy than someone who is poor. That simply isn’t fair,” said UMaine history student Lincoln Tiner.

The sentiment among students was not unanimous.

“I am usually against outside donors for political campaigns, as I think it can cause corruption. However, Maine and its politicians are relatively poorer than those in other states, so for state elections, I voted against setting a donation limit. I want to see those running for office be able to reach people all across the state and get their information out in an effective way—and to do that, they will need more money,” said Political Science Student Gabriel Dosreis. 

Question 2: Do you favor a bond issue of $25,000,000 to provide funds, to be awarded through a competitive process and to leverage matching private and federal funds on at least a one-to-one basis, for research and development and commercialization for Maine-based public and private institutions in support of technological innovation in the targeted sectors of life sciences and biomedical technology, environmental and renewable energy technology, information technology, advanced technologies for forestry and agriculture, aquaculture and marine technology, composites and advanced materials and precision manufacturing?

“The fast development of technology, the changing climate and the various industries that serve as pillars of Maine’s economy require investment in order to keep Maine competitive and create new economic opportunities for businesses and workers in our state,” said Tiner, elaborating on the phrasing of Question 2.

“This is funding for the innovation of different fields, such as biomedicine, renewable energy, forestry and agriculture, marine technology and manufacturing: all central institutions in our state,” said political science student Memphis Peterson.

Question 3: Do you favor a $10,000,000 bond issue to restore historic buildings owned by governmental and nonprofit organizations, with funds being issued contingent on a 25% local match requirement from either private or nonprofit sources?

“I fully supported this bill. I have worked with and volunteered with nonprofits for as long as I can remember so I’m always willing to support them. I am also a historical enthusiast who wants to see Maine’s historical buildings standing and not rot away and be forgotten. I take pride in the history of my state and I want the pieces that are left of that history to remain so it can be admired and enjoyed by my children…and future generations,” said Dosreis.

Question 4: Do you favor a $30,000,000 bond issue to invest in the design, development and maintenance for non-motorized, motorized and multi-use trails statewide, to be matched by at least $3,000,000 in private and public contributions?

Tiner, Dosreis and Peterson were all in agreement. 

“[We need] funding restoration and upkeep of historical buildings and trails, which are cores of Maine culture,” said Peterson. 

“Maine is an outdoors state. Whether you like fishing, hiking, walking or something else, the outdoors serves as a reprieve for many of us from the stresses of everyday life. Investing in these resources is important not only for our general enjoyment but also for out-of-staters who contribute to our tourism industry,” said Tiner. 

“I enjoy the outdoors and I see myself as an avid outdoorsman. I want everyone to have the equal opportunity to enjoy the outdoors as I do, so I also supported this bill,” said Dosreis.

Question 5: Do you favor making the former state flag, replaced as the official flag of the State in 1909 and commonly known as the Pine Tree Flag, the official flag of the State?

This question will restore the original state flag, used prior to the year 1909 from the current blue Dirigo flag used today. 

“I love the pine tree flag,” Dosreis says, “[But] I’m not a fan of the Original Maine company’s design because it’s too blocky…I think Shenna Bellows picked a somewhat better design. It combines both the realistic pine tree look that the original did but with a modern take. Maine’s pine tree flag is iconic and can be recognized anywhere across the country just like the flags of Texas and California. It has that old New England spirit to it, reminding me of the Continental flag and it feels like it represents us better than the current flag.” 

“I am a big fan of the proposed new state flag for Maine. I find state seals boring on flags, and I encourage flags to be a more unique symbol for a state. I grew up in Kansas and Arizona, and I much prefer the latter’s flag as it is a much more interesting symbol of the state’s culture. Seals are great and all, but having a different, more unique flag is another way to express the state’s values, culture and history,” Peterson added. 

Although students interviewed on referendum options expressed strong opinions, it is well known that not all students find the time to educate themselves on ballot questions prior to Election Day.

“As for whether voters do the homework and actually understand what they’re voting on, it’s hard to say. I’ll just say this: everyone should review these questions carefully, ” said Professor Glover. 

UMaine students can find more information about the specific 2024 Maine ballot referendum questions on Ballotpedia’s overview of Maine’s ballot measures and in the Bangor Daily News in-depth guide here.