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The Budget

Photo: Newsradio WGAN, WGAN

The Budget

Matt Gagnon discussed the recent budget approval in Augusta, where Democrats passed a $11.3 billion two-year budget without Republican support. The budget will be sent to Governor Janet Mills for approval. Republicans criticized the lack of bipartisan involvement and the budget’s imbalance, citing over $100 million in unaccounted MaineCare costs. The budget was enacted 76-66 in the House and 18-17 in the Senate. Gagnon highlighted historical bipartisan budgeting practices and criticized the current Democratic approach, suggesting it has created a cycle of mistrust and intransigence among Republicans, potentially leading to a state government shutdown if a compromise isn’t reached.

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