On this episode of the Maine Veterans Spotlight, we continue in our series of talking with Veterans who are also involved in the Masons. This is ahead of the Moose Hunt Lottery, hosted by the Masons on June 19th and 20th at the Acton Fairgrounds. We talk with US Army Veteran Brian Veneziano, US Coast Guard Veteran Chuck Billings, and Bill Vivian, who attended and worked at Norwich University in Vermont.

Coffee & Politics sponsored by Autowerkes Maine in Freeport. Expert and efficient European car service without the attitude! Maine’s number one independent repair facility. 3-98 Route 1 Freeport. Online at www.AutowerkesMaine.com

We discuss All Things New England Sports with John Tomase on “Wicked Sports Weekend.

Montana Towers from the Maine Policy Institute joins Matt Gagnon

The Maine Secretary of State's office found the transgender sports referendum short by 500 signatures, with over 12,000 deemed invalid due to misconduct by petition circulators. Chief Deputy Secretary of State Kate McBrien recommended invalidating all signatures collected by circulators who left forms unattended. Matt criticized the sweeping invalidation and suggested contacting signers to verify their intent. Over 1,400 signatures were invalidated due to technicalities, and all 61 signatures gathered by one woman were forged. Matt argued that the invalidation process was biased and aimed at derailing the referendum, benefiting the Democratic Party.

AAA's Tom Baran reported that 45 million people will travel over Memorial Day weekend, a 4.4% increase from last year, with 87% traveling by car. Despite high gas prices averaging $4.51 per gallon in Maine, up from $2.85 in January, travel demand remains strong. Air travel is also up by 8%. Baran advised travelers to plan ahead, avoid peak hours, and drive safely to mitigate increased traffic and potential road rage. He emphasized the importance of patience, proper planning, and adherence to safe driving practices to ensure a smooth holiday weekend.

Matt is joined by security analyst Josh Filler. Josh is an attorney and former New York City, White House, and Department of Homeland Security official, bringing deep national security experience to the conversation.

Stay informed on state and national politics with Jason Savage, Executive Director of the Maine Republican Party

The Pan-Atlantic Research Omnibus Poll of Maine was discussed, highlighting its large sample size and focus on various political aspects. Matt criticized the poll's accuracy, particularly in close elections, citing a 48% to 41% lead for Plattner over Collins, with 11% undecided. The poll's sample was split between Congressional Districts 1 and 2, reducing its effectiveness.

Eric Lusk & Keith Mestrich in For BJ their Analysis of Maine & National Politics.