Newsradio WGAN

Maine's political climate is getting increasingly contentious. Matt Gagnon discusses the heated Senate debate, Troy Jackson's confrontation with a protester, and Matt Dunlap's criticism of Jared Golden. Is Dunlap's strategy of appealing to progressive voters helping his campaign, or creating unnecessary divisions?

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Bill is our Caller Of The Week!

John Tomase joins Matt Gagnon for “Wicked Sports Weekend,” breaking down the latest from across the New England sports scene.

Bobby Reynolds joins Matt Gagnon to discuss growing political polarization, the influence of partisan media, and the challenges facing moderate candidates. The conversation explores Jared Golden's political future, the role of endorsements, and whether candidates can still appeal to voters across party lines in Maine's Second District.

The Portland Community Chamber previews its October 21 gubernatorial forum at USM’s Hannaford Hall. Three candidates will answer the same questions on housing, affordability, taxes, healthcare, workforce development, and Maine’s economy. The discussion also highlights how state policies and federal funding cuts could impact Greater Portland.

New campaign finance reports reveal a major fundraising gap in Maine’s U.S. Senate race. Joy Jackson raised $20.4 million compared to Susan Collins’ $5.2 million, but Collins ended September with more cash on hand and no debt. The discussion examines campaign spending, out-of-state donations, and why money remaining matters more than total dollars raised.

During WGAN’s Make 12 Hours Count for Veterans Forward Radiothon, Bill and Brian discussed how Veterans Forward provides immediate, personalized assistance to Maine veterans and their families. From heating and housing to food, transportation, and employment support, the program helps veterans overcome challenges and regain stability. They also highlighted how community donations make it possible to respond quickly when veterans need help most.

Jeff Pierce continues NewsRadio WGAN's Make 12 Hours Count for Veterans Forward Radiothon with retired Major General Bill Libby, former Adjutant General of the Maine National Guard.

Libby reflects on his service in Vietnam, his 33-year career in the Maine Army National Guard, and the Guard's evolution into a modern fighting force.

The conversation turns to the challenges facing Maine veterans, particularly those reluctant to ask for help. Libby emphasizes the importance of Veterans Forward, a program of Easterseals Maine, in providing immediate assistance and calls for greater coordination among Maine's hundreds of veterans' organizations to better serve those who served.

Support Maine veterans at WGAN.com/veteransforward.

Jeff Pierce and retired Major General Doug Farnham continue NewsRadio WGAN's Make 12 Hours Count for Veterans Forward Radiothon, highlighting the importance of community support for Maine veterans and their families.

Howie Carr joins the effort with a $500 contribution and donated airtime to help raise awareness. Marine veteran and Veterans Forward peer specialist AJ Jones discusses how personal connections and timely assistance help veterans overcome challenges involving transportation, housing, and access to benefits.

Doug Farnham and retired Major General Bill Libby emphasize the importance of local organizations stepping in when traditional veterans' programs cannot meet immediate needs.

The hour highlights how donations to Veterans Forward, a program of Easterseals Maine, make a difference right here in Maine.

Donate at WGAN.com/veteransforward.