American politician and Marine Corps veteran serving Maine’s 2nd District since 2019
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.
In California’s top-two primary, Kevin Kiley leads a Republican surge in a Democrat-dominated district after Prop 50 redraw, threatening Democratic hopes of advancing candidates. Michael Stansfield, a virtually unknown Republican, trails in second, potentially blocking any Democrat in the general election. Richard Pan trails in third, with Pan hoping more ballots will change the result as counting continues.
Democrat Graham Platner has withdrawn amid sexual-assault allegations, triggering a rapid search for a replacement nominee ahead of a July 27 deadline.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.
The National Defense Authorization Act has cleared the House with a 216-212 vote, boosting military spending and strengthening US-Israel defense cooperation. The measure now faces Senate scrutiny, with Democrats criticizing the price tag and war-related provisions while Republicans defend funding for readiness and security. The package also includes provisions tied to the SAVE America Act and election-related funding.
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.
Progressive candidates win notable primary contests in Michigan, led by an underdog bid that secures a narrow victory in the 7th District. Lawrence defeats Brink and Maasdam, signaling a shift to the left in key swing district races. Other downballot wins illustrate broader momentum for Democratic socialists and allied groups.