John Richardson pens a long, nuanced piece for the Kennebec Journal about the shifting endangered species-status of the Canada lynx, and a meeting Maine's senators set up between an interior department deputy assistant secretary and timber company representatives, at which staffers for the senators were present.
Naturally, a PAC associated with the company has made contributions to both senators (as well as Rep. Allen and Rep. Michaud) over the years.
So: Was setting up the meeting a gift to special interests? An unremarkable example of constituent services? A favor to the governor?
Richardson doesn't offer any easy answers--he does a good job of following a complicated set of facts where they lead him. And I'd like to give his piece another read before floating any theories.
But it's fair to say his report provides more evidence, if any was needed, that the line between good government and backroom shenanigans isn't always as bright as some of us would like it to be.
In the meantime, Maine press: More thoughtful, well-researched political reporting like this, please?
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