In Maine, we have no voter ID laws, we have same day registration, we have no-excuse absentee voting, we have mail-in voting, we have early voting, we have 24/7 drop boxes.
And we have virtually no fraud.
Expanding ballot access doesn't encourage fraud; it encourages VOTING.
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Senator Angus King
@SenAngusKing
News from the office of Independent U.S. Senator Angus King of Maine. Following/retweeting does not equal an endorsement.
Senator Angus King’s posts
I’ve had it with the idea that we’re tired, and we can’t take the time to get this right. There are people across Maine right now working two shifts, and we can’t keep going in order to collect the evidence we need to uphold our oaths? Give me a break.
0:29
A simple proposal to assess and blunt the spread of the coronavirus: give all Americans the same testing regimen that the White House gets.
Brett Kavanaugh’s nomination is one of the most important votes I will take in the Senate – and after carefully studying his record (at least the part that is available) and judicial philosophy, I have decided that I will vote no on his confirmation. My full statement:
Our democracy faces a crisis that requires action. Now is the moment to reach beyond region, beyond party, beyond self, to save and reinvigorate the sputtering flame of the American idea. That is why we must pass the #FreedomToVoteAct.
5:35
If you know me, you know I’m a pretty even-tempered guy – but right now, I’m angry. We need widespread testing to understand the scope of this problem and the administration has the tools to lead the charge. Instead, they’re trying to offload this responsibility to the states.
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On call with @Mike_Pence, @SenAngusKing calls federal testing effort a ‘dereliction of duty’ bit.ly/2VfEf39 #mepolitics
The Senate’s upcoming votes on voting rights may be the most important votes I ever take – because without free and fair elections, the rest of our system doesn’t work. This is no ordinary policy issue; it is the foundation of our democracy, and we must defend it.
1:07
Took this photo in Iraq last week: looking down as the helicopter taking us to Taji circled the spot where she was shot down 15 years ago while piloting her Blackhawk. This is a picture of courage, commitment and grit – I've got a new hero. instagram.com/p/BwuOrddAKv4/
I’ve cosponsored legislation to block the federal government from deploying unidentified, unmarked police forces against Americans exercising their First Amendment rights.
This is a moment of truth, when Americans must stand up for our values or risk losing them.
Last year I traveled to Iraq with , and took this photo as our helicopter circled the spot where she was shot down in 2004.
Tammy Duckworth is an American patriot; grit and courage personified. Political differences shouldn't diminish what she gives to our nation.
Fielding a call urging me to vote ‘no’ on the Senate tax bill. The ratio of calls to my office is overwhelming – for every one person who supports this plan, I hear from 50 opponents. The people don’t want us to pass this bill.
By overturning Roe v. Wade, this Supreme Court has erased nearly half a century of precedent upon precedent through a dangerous, blatantly political ruling that will rob millions of women the right to make decisions about their own health, safety, and lives. My full statement:
President Trump’s efforts to pressure the Georgia Secretary of State into actual election fraud would make Richard Nixon blush. Let’s call this what it is: an overt, corrupt attempt to overturn the will of the voters.
I’m a cosponsor of ’s Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act because America should always stand with those who fight for their freedoms. This legislation just passed in the House; it’s time for @senatemajldr to let the Senate vote on this defense of human rights.
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Hong Kong’s unique status as an island of democratic values in a sea of repression is worth protecting – Congress needs to send a clear message that we stand with Hong Kong’s citizens as they fight to defend their freedoms.
0:30
I love John McCain. I've traveled with him, I've been tongue lashed by him, I've worked with him, and I wish I could be with him tonight.
When the #1 reason for Americans losing faith in our democratic process is the President himself making false claims and undermining the vote count, we are in a very dark moment.
Great news for Maine - we're getting a lobster emoji!!! Thanks to for recognizing the impact of this critical crustacean, in Maine and across the country.
Yours truly,
Senator 🐮👑
Today, and I called on the and @AjitPaiFCC to cancel the vote on repealing #netneutrality #mepolitics
My statement after reviewing the FBI investigation earlier today:
Thanks to all who’ve sent me warm wishes after my COVID diagnosis; happy to say that I’m back to 100%. I didn’t feel great during the worst of my illness, but I’m confident that I would have felt a whole lot worse if I hadn’t received the vaccine.
The Postmaster General’s appearances before Congress have betrayed his lack of knowledge about the USPS, and shown his indifference towards the challenges Americans are facing as a result of his policies. Inexcusable.
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This isn’t a time for politics – it’s a time for partnership. I want to work with the administration and the states to expand testing, get this virus under control, and safely reopen our economy. But it all starts with testing and that’s where Washington – so far – is failing us.
Each day President Trump continues to manufacture claims of fraud, more Americans lose faith in our elections – the backbone of our system.
This can't go on. If the Trump campaign has evidence of widespread wrongdoing, they should show it. If not, the President should concede.
Spent some time this AM talking to constituents about healthcare. I'm a no on Graham-Cassidy. #mepolitics
Spent some more time answering the phone on the tax bill. We've been swamped with calls, almost entirely against the bill--and I agree with them. #mepolitics
0:09
President-Elect Biden will be sworn in as the 46th President of the United States on January 20th. No attack launched by President Trump or his Congressional enablers will change that fact – but their words can still wreak immense damage on our democratic systems. My statement:
When a sitting president admits to using the power of his office to openly solicit the engagement of a foreign government in his re-election, our system of checks and balances means that Congress has no choice but to follow the facts where they lead. pressherald.com/2019/10/08/ang
On @NewDay this morning, I tried to make it clear: throughout the Senate Intel Committee’s work getting to the bottom of interference in the 2016 election, I have not seen any evidence that Ukraine was involved in the interference or influence campaign. It was Russia.
1:08
Donald Trump’s campaign to undermine our democratic system is the single most irresponsible act ever committed by a United States President in our history. He must be held accountable – either through his resignation, the 25th Amendment, or impeachment. My full statement:
Congratulations to President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris — the best team to lead us through this moment. But we must remember that they cannot solve our problems and bridge our divisions alone; we must all come together and put the country first.
If confirmed this evening, Judge Barrett will be added to the Supreme Court 8 days before the election – but she refused to commit to recusing herself from any election-related case involving the President who appointed her. That alone is disqualifying.
2:19
Tonight, President Trump pardoned political cronies who lied to cover up for him; elected officials who enriched themselves on the taxpayers’ dime; and Blackwater contractors who killed innocent Iraqi civilians.
This is not “law and order;” it is straight-up corruption.
Hong Kong’s unique status as an island of democratic values in a sea of repression is worth protecting – Congress needs to send a clear message that we stand with Hong Kong’s citizens as they fight to defend their freedoms.
0:30
Please see my statement on the President's firing of FBI Director James Comey:
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My colleagues who are supporting this week’s anti-democratic sideshow should listen to this recording, and think twice about if they’re truly ready to go down in history with a President who so clearly and desperately wants to delegitimize democracy.
An overly rigid judicial philosophy, a refusal to say he will recuse himself from cases affecting the president who appointed him, his hidden record, temperament -- there is no shortage of reasons to oppose Judge Kavanaugh's confirmation. My floor speech: facebook.com/SenatorAngusSK
Right now, the very idea of America – the sacred idea of government of the people, by the people, and for the people – is under threat. We must act now to protect our system of self-government; at roughly 6:30, I’ll speak on the Senate floor in support of the #FreedomToVoteAct.
The Director of National Intelligence must provide the President with an honest assessment of the facts that the intelligence community finds — even if it’s not politically convenient. Dan Coats has lived up to that responsibility; his departure is a great loss for the country.
The idea that the Administration would reverse its policy of family separation to show "compassion" but not attempt to return the 2000+ children who have already been taken makes no sense. These kids still need their parents, and should be reunited with them immediately.
This report is clear: climate change is already making an impact on our lives, with many more obvious consequences coming in the near future. If we don’t act now, we will be grossly failing ourselves and our children. #mepolitics
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Changing climate will hit New England hard, report says.
pressherald.com/2018/11/23/cha
America is a rare experiment in self-government, based upon the radical idea that the people – all the people – are the ultimate source of power. We must guard against the erosion of our democratic norms and continue fighting to pass the #FreedomToVoteAct.
2:30
As Congress drafts a budget plan to support American families, I’m committed to finding viable ways to pay for the bill – including making sure that corporations earning profits of more than $100 million per year pay their fair share.
It’s right there on the tapes. President Trump knew the scope and scale of the coronavirus pandemic before it struck. He could have warned the American people; could have changed behaviors and told people to take this seriously; could have slowed the virus’s spread.
He didn’t.
The President abandoned our Kurdish partners who stood with us against ISIS; it appears some of those partners are now being slaughtered, and some ISIS captives have been freed. A heartbreakingly predictable outcome of one of the worst decisions I‘ve seen by an American leader.
At today's Senate hearing on election reforms, I concluded by pointing out Maine has same-day voter registration, no-excuse absentee voting, no voter ID, and no fraud. So count me as a skeptic of new state policies being considered to chase fraud claims I haven't seen validated.
0:30
198 years of the way life should be. Happy birthday, Maine.
You can consider this retweet an endorsement.
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This has to stop – we all have a job – 3 branches of gov’t and media. We don’t have to get along, but we must show respect and civility.
I oppose drilling off our coast. Keeping Maine's water clean and bountiful is absolutely essential to our livelihood. #mepolitics
All this week we’ve hunted around here for the health care bill. This morning we found it & I’m kind of sorry we did because it’s pretty bad
1:06
Journalists are members of our communities, and vital participants in our democracy — not enemies.
I’m praying for the victims at the Capital Gazette, and their families.
I unequivocally condemn white supremacy – because the America I know is a country constantly striving to better fulfill the principle that all men and women are created equal.
See, it’s not that hard to say.
I’ve long been opposed to changes to the filibuster – but if I have to choose between a Senate rule and democracy itself, I'll choose democracy every single time.
4:30
Disappointed that the Senate rejected my motion to recommit the tax bill to the Finance Committee. This bill is too important to rush – we need to get it right.
In 2006, the Senate voted 98-0 to reauthorize the Voting Rights Act – but today, most of my Republican colleagues declined to even open debate on the John Lewis Voting Rights Act and address voting laws that will make it hard for many Americans to exercise their right to vote.
Absolutely I objected. We have too much to do.
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McConnell ask consent for Senate to adjourn tonight & reconvene tomorrow at 11am for more debate on CR.
King (I-ME) objects :"I don't understand why we're adjourning when we're in this urgent situation."
Despite taking precautions and receiving the vaccine, this morning I tested positive for COVID-19. While I am not feeling great, I’m definitely feeling much better than I would have without the vaccine. My full statement:
Over the past several weeks, so many Maine people – particularly women – have shared with me their stories about how they have been affected by this nomination fight. All I can say to them today is that we cannot give up hope. The work is not over; it is just beginning.
It’s wrong for a president – any president – to taint the independence of our judicial system by bending the rules for a political ally. In America, we have one set of laws, and no one is above them – if we abandon that principle, we abandon who we are.
A small moment in the State of the Union that really bothered me: the President said “government schools” instead of public schools, in what seemed like an attempt to denigrate public education. That won’t fly with me.
0:36
Today, President Biden signed my resolution with and , reinstating essential regulations on the emission of methane emissions. A major victory in the fight against climate change – but the work is far from over. #CutMethane
After carefully studying William Barr’s record, I will be voting no on his nomination to serve as Attorney General. This vote is the product of intense research and thought, and my final decision is defined as much by the circumstances as it is by the nominee. My full statement:
I solemnly swear that in all things appertaining to the trial of the impeachment of Donald John Trump, President of the United States, now pending, I will do impartial justice according to the Constitution and laws, so help me God.
America’s election – the foundation of Democracy itself – is in grave peril as we face disinformation from global adversaries around the planet, and @DNI_Ratcliffe’s move to stop briefing Congress on foreign threats to our election is an outrage. My full statement:
The Affordable Care Act isn’t collapsing – it’s being mugged. #mepolitics
1:13
Thx to & . Those were some of the bravest votes I’ve ever seen in politics.
. has it right. The Senate Intel Committee, under the leadership of and , is conducting a thorough, bipartisan investigation, which includes talking to as many witnesses and sources as possible.
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Sen.Warner fully disclosed this to the committee four months ago.Has had zero impact on our work. fxn.ws/2nXIdM6 #FoxNews
The great tower of the Washington National Cathedral, just before John McCain's funeral Saturday morning. The service was amazing - a fitting tribute to a life of honor and character.
And, by the way, the sun was coming out as we quietly left the church. instagram.com/p/BnMbNKCjTfX/
AG Barr’s topline summary of the Mueller report leaves me with several lingering questions, which is why I believe the Attorney General and his staff must show us their work, explain their decision, and expediently release as much of the report as possible. My full statement:
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We would rightly condemn this behavior if it occurred in another nation, and we should oppose it even more forcefully at home.
In the face of impeachment proceedings, the silence of the President and his allies is deafening. If the Administration has truly done nothing wrong, they can and should clear up any confusion by allowing witnesses to testify under oath before Congress.
The Senate's decision to ignore witnesses is nothing less than an abdication of our responsibilities, an asterisk on these proceedings, and a stain on our institution. My full statement on this misguided vote:
Earlier today, I signed a letter urging the Administration to end its policy of separating immigrant children from their parents. We need to live by our national values at all times; this practice falls far short of those principles.
In a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing earlier this year, I stressed that the global market – especially the U.S. – must hold Huawei accountable for their close ties to the Chinese government.
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Huawei is trying to be both a worldwide telecommunications firm and an agent of the Chinese government. As I said during today’s Intelligence Committee hearing, it can’t be both – the global market needs to hold Huawei accountable.
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Today, every member of the Senate Minority voted against simply opening debate on the #FreedomToVoteAct, which would strengthen our democratic process. This is a disappointment, but we cannot and will not stop working to preserve and defend the flame of democracy. My statement:
Washington sunrise. Yesterday was the most disappointing and dispiriting day since I started this job 7 years ago. The truth will surely come out, probably sooner rather than later, and, at that moment, each of us will be answerable to History. instagram.com/p/B8Bo3WJFqlh/
Tonight’s outcome was pre-determined from the moment Mitch McConnell skipped past his shameful Merrick Garland precedent and ignored Justice Ginsburg’s dying wish – but that doesn’t make it any easier to stomach. My full statement:
Never been called “Atticus Finch on a Harley” before – but I don’t mind it! Thanks to and for shining their light on Maine and the need to put common sense before party politics in Washington. If you missed the segment, watch here:
This week, I was named Ranking Member on the Senate Subcommittee on National Parks. Those of you who’ve met me (and many of you who haven’t) know that these parks hold a special place in my heart; honored and humbled by this opportunity to protect them for the future. #mepolitics
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If you’d like to watch the full speech, you can do so here:
Here’s the Glamorous Life of a US Senator. That’s me holding ’s poster. You can tell by my lobster tie #humaneasel
The economy is foundering; states and localities are facing massive shortfalls; across the country, sick, jobless, and anxious Americans need help.
But President Trump just said, clear as day, that he’s putting politics before aid for those who are suffering.
Unbelievable.
It might look like Congress is solely focused on impeachment, but that’s not true – there’s a lot of work being done to address issues facing the American people. The real obstacle to change? The Majority Leader is stifling bills being passed out of committees and by the House.
2:41
I took a page out of my friend ’s book to share a nightmare with my colleagues in . America’s cybervulnerabilities – especially for our water system – could lead to catastrophe if left unaddressed; we need to improve our cybersecurity, now.
0:41
For the second time in as many days, President Trump has made it clear he believes that his friends and associates don’t need to follow the same laws as the rest of us.
Special Counsel Mueller’s investigation must not be compromised – whether it’s cutting off funding for the investigation or an outright termination of it.
Actions of hate groups in Virginia are unacceptable and unAmerican and have no place anywhere in our country.
I was moved by Dr. Ford’s courageous and credible testimony, and believe more than ever that we should not vote on Judge Kavanaugh’s nomination without a full investigation of her allegations. It’s still not too late; there is no deadline to this process.
In light of yesterday’s news that the Justice Department will no longer be defending the Affordable Care Act, a reminder: the ACA isn’t collapsing. It’s being mugged.
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The Affordable Care Act isn’t collapsing – it’s being mugged. #mepolitics
1:13
I want to be very clear: I support increased border security, and I think there’s a solution to be had that works for the President, Congress, and the American people. But we can’t have this discussion with a shutdown hanging over our head. To start, let's open the government.
1:11
Calm in Maine; this beautiful shot was recently shared by a friend on the coast. I don’t know where to start to describe the week that just passed; our democracy had a close call, and our job now is to figure out how to prevent another. instagram.com/p/CJ1VlKXFt3c/
Ulysses S. Grant standing guard in the Capitol Rotunda. No military base bears his name, but we have ten Army bases named for Confederate generals. Yesterday, the Senate Armed Services Committee took a bipartisan step to end this divisive legacy. instagram.com/p/CBTNt1wpCNj/
The Constitution clearly gives the authority to set election dates to Congress, not the President – because the Founders feared a moment exactly like this one.
Summer’s end — with a note of hope. No politics today, just a quiet moment in Maine.
Back to DC today – truly honored by the faith the people of Maine have placed in me, and more determined than ever to fight for them. There’s so much important work left to be done, and I’ll give my all to make sure Washington’s actions reflect Maine’s priorities.
The debate surrounding this impeachment trial isn’t just about this President – it’s about the next one, and the next one, and the next one. If we don’t stand up for our checks and balances, we could lose them forever.
1:20