A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the Maine Secretary of State on February 5, 2025, by Pine State News. The media organization sought comprehensive details about all candidates running in the upcoming spring elections.
In the request, Pine State News asked for a list of all candidates participating in the election under the provisions of the Maine Freedom of Access Act § 402 et seq. The information requested included each candidate's first, middle, and last names, the office they are running for, their jurisdiction, and party affiliation.
In addition to these details, Pine State News also requested contact information for each candidate. This includes their address, phone number, and email address.
As a media organization dedicated to providing accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, we at Pine State News believe that access to public records is crucial in fulfilling our professional responsibilities. These include holding public institutions accountable and ensuring transparency for the public.
We have also appealed for a fee waiver as a media professional due to our role in disseminating information to the public. We eagerly await a response from the Maine Secretary of State's office regarding this FOIA request.