American politician and Marine Corps veteran representing Maine’s 2nd district since 2019
House Republican leaders have pulled a scheduled vote on a Democratic war-powers resolution to compel President Trump to seek congressional authorization for the Iran campaign after defections and multiple absences made it clear they lacked the votes to block the measure. The Senate has recently advanced a similar resolution as some Republicans have joined Democrats.
Since late May, Trump-endorsed candidates have reshaped key Republican primaries: Ken Paxton has beaten John Cornyn in Texas and will face Democrat James Talarico in November; in South Carolina Trump has backed Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette and Sen. Lindsey Graham has secured the president's endorsement for his fifth-term bid. Democrats are raising funds and recalibrating strategy in response.
Developing races across multiple states enter critical runoff phases. Maine’s Second District sees Paul LePage mounting a high-profile bid, while South Carolina’s First District and California’s 48th District anticipate decisive runoffs. Democrats and Republicans intensify campaigns as district maps shape fall contests and national control.
Democrat Graham Platner has withdrawn amid sexual-assault allegations, triggering a rapid search for a replacement nominee ahead of a July 27 deadline. The Maine Democratic Party plans a nominating convention to select the nominee, while candidates race to present themselves to roughly 600 delegates.
Officials say a string of fatal incidents involving immigration enforcement have prompted renewed scrutiny of DHS vetting and tactics. The Maine and Houston shootings have sparked demands for independent investigations and reforms as lawmakers push for oversight.
Measure authorizes spending until 4 December as Republicans seek to avoid volatile issue in election season
Environmental groups warn that delaying protections risks the survival of North Atlantic right whales, of which about 380 remain. The House Natural Resources Committee has voted to extend the moratorium on new right whale rules to 2035, with a full congressional vote expected soon. Proponents cite data-gathering needs while opponents warn the fishing industry could bear the economic burden. The debate follows a pause in regulations set to last until 2028.