News

Biddeford Democrat is latest to challenge Maine Sen. Susan Collins

Biddeford Democrat is latest to challenge Maine Sen. Susan Collins

Photo: Campaign of Daira Smith-Rodriguez for Senate


A Democrat from Biddeford is joining in the race to unseat Maine Sen. Susan Collins next year.

Daira Smith-Rodriguez announced her candidacy Thursday.

As part of her announcement, she blasted Republicans and the political establishment:

“The American people are onto career politicians and their tricks. The illusion has been broken. Donald Trump and his devastating policies are stripping the working class of their freedom, their homes, and their peace of mind. No more complicity in genocide and forever wars.”

Smith-Rodriguez worked as a civilian contracting officer for the U.S. Air Force for nearly 15 years.

Other Democrats in that race include former U.S. Marine and oyster farmer Graham Platner, while Gov. Janet Mills says she’s seriously considering a run but will wait until November to make a final decision.

The pool of Democratic candidates also includes Maine Beer Co. co-founder Dan Kleban of Cumberland, David Costello of Brunswick, and former congressional staffer Jordan Wood of Bristol.

Latest Headlines

1 day ago in Entertainment, Music

Ace Frehley, Kiss’ original lead guitarist and founding member, dies at 74

Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and founding member of the glam rock band Kiss, who captivated audiences with his elaborate galactic makeup and smoking guitar, died Thursday. He was 74.

3 days ago in Lifestyle

Walking is good for you. Walking backward can add to the benefits

Here's a simple way to switch up your walking routine, according to experts: try going backward. Taking a brisk walk is an exercise rich in simplicity, and it can have impressive mental and physical benefits: stronger bones and muscles, cardiovascular fitness and stress relief, to name a few.

3 days ago in Entertainment

A character wouldn’t leave Reese Witherspoon alone. It led to her first novel

Reese Witherspoon's first novel for adults began with the kind of inspiration veteran fiction writers know well — a character who wouldn't leave her alone.

4 days ago in Entertainment

D’Angelo, Grammy-winning R&B singer who became an icon with ‘Untitled (How Does It Feel),’ dies

D'Angelo, the Grammy-winning R&B singer recognized by his raspy yet smooth voice and for garnering mainstream attention with the shirtless "Untitled (How Does It Feel)" music video, has died. He was 51.

4 days ago in Entertainment

‘Tron: Ares’ tops box office but falls short of expectations with $33.5 million debut

"Tron: Ares" powered up the box office grid in the top spot this weekend, but Disney's third entry in the sci-fi franchise fell short of expectations.