Phil Hirschkorn hosts Democrat Betsy Sweet and Republican Matt Pouliot to discuss the latest in local and national politics.

Independent gubernatorial candidate Rick Bennett says his new plan would help lower energy and living costs in Maine.

SEARSMONT — State senator and independent candidate for governor Rick Bennett unveiled a four-point plan Thursday for addressing one of Maine’s most pressing problems — high energy prices.

Halting property taxes, deterring migrants and dedicating $100 million to fund construction are among the ideas Maine’s gubernatorial candidates have to improve the state’s housing market.

Five Democrats and seven Republicans are fighting hard in their uncertain primaries for the chance to replace Gov. Janet Mills, but playmakers on both sides of the aisle are already strategizing around a candidate who isn’t on the ballot until November.

Gubernatorial candidates attending the first ever Wabanaki forum on Thursday in Houlton each said they support tribal sovereignty. 

Pharmacy deserts. Rising costs. Workforce shortages and funding gaps. Uncertainty from Washington.

"My goal is to make Mainers the healthiest people in the nation," said Bennett.

Maine has an affordability crisis, and housing is a big part of it.

I certainly hope Bennett will be our next governor.

I would like to share my enthusiastic support for Rick Bennett’s campaign as an independent candidate for governor. 

A dozen candidates for governor gathered in Rockport on Saturday to discuss the issues facing one of the state’s key industries.

Sen. Rick Bennett of Oxford talks with a supporter during an event launching his independent run for governor at KBS Builders in Oxford, Maine.

It’s time to send a message. Vote independent. Vote for Rick Bennett for governor.

Bennett has already proven that he will show up, listen and act for anyone.

Some political observers say today’s partisan climate reduces the chances of success for independents like Sen. Rick Bennett. Others say a moderate candidate is just what Maine needs.

Phil Hirschkorn hosts former Republican State Senator Lisa Keim and Democratic consultant BJ McCollister to talk about the latest in local and national politics

According to the bill's co-sponsor, Senator Rick Bennett of Oxford, the legislation is based on the recommendations of a bipartisan task force of legislators to amend the Maine Indian Claims Settlement Act to restore self-governance over a range of issues. 

"It was a joke previously to say someone's in their mid-20s and living in their mom's basement, but that is our economic reality now," Worth said of the experience of him and his peers.

“Maine is facing an affordability crisis, and Maine’s next governor must be laser-focused on this issue,” Bennett told reporters gathered inside a new home that is part of an 18-unit modular housing development in Rumford.