MAINE MORNING STAR • October 16, 2024
A longtime supporter of offshore wind, U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree, the Democratic incumbent for Maine’s 1st Congressional District, said she is committed to pushing for even more federal support for renewable energy industries. Her Republican challenger, Ron Russell, does not support offshore wind. In fact, Russell said if elected he would do everything in his power to stop it. Maine has received millions of dollars from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to deploy electric vehicle charging stations throughout the state and pilot an electric ferry program. Pingree is proud of her part in helping pass that “landmark” legislation. While Russell sees electric cars as cost prohibitive, he said increasing access to electric buses and ferries would be a more cost efficient option. Independent candidate Ethan Alcorn declined to directly answer questions about offshore wind and electrifying transportation.