Aroostook County, Maine faces significant challenges, particularly regarding reliance on SNAP benefits. This reliance, coupled with the ongoing government shutdown, has strained local food banks and pantries. Aroostook has higher rates of SNAP usage and an older, less affluent population, amplifying the impact of reduced federal aid. Despite court orders, potential benefit cuts are expected to further strain the county’s already struggling residents, making local aid groups adapt and find other means.
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Maine voters approved a ballot measure allowing family members to petition courts to restrict a potentially dangerous person’s access to guns, expanding on the state’s existing “yellow flag” law. This move comes two years after a mass shooting in Lewiston, which resulted in 18 fatalities and prompted calls for stricter gun control. The new “red flag” law, supported by gun safety advocates, allows family members to initiate the process, unlike the existing law, which only allows police. This measure has faced opposition from Republicans and gun rights groups.
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture has declared that SNAP benefits will not be distributed next month due to the ongoing government shutdown, now in its 21st day. This decision impacts 42 million Americans, including nearly 170,000 in Maine, who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for food assistance. While November benefits are paused, previously issued benefits remain usable, and applications for SNAP are still being accepted. For further assistance, individuals are encouraged to contact 211.
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Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, November SNAP benefits will not be issued nationwide. This decision, impacting approximately 42 million people, including nearly 170,000 Mainers, stems from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s notification to state agencies. While existing EBT card funds remain available, future benefits are contingent on the shutdown’s resolution or new federal guidance. Maine DHHS is actively monitoring developments and will provide updates as they become available to SNAP recipients.
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In a surprising move, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders has endorsed Graham Platner, an oyster farmer and former U.S. Marine, in his bid to unseat Republican Senator Susan Collins of Maine. Platner’s grassroots campaign has quickly gained momentum, raising $1 million and signing up 3,000 supporters in just ten days. Sanders is scheduled to rally with Platner on Labor Day, while some Democrats are reportedly hoping that Governor Janet Mills will enter the race. Collins, whose approval ratings have declined, faces a challenge from the surging Platner, who aligns with Sanders on progressive policies.
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The former president expressed a desire to intervene in Chicago’s issues by deploying the National Guard, asserting his authority as president to do so. He stated that he would have “much more respect” for the governor if he was called to assist. However, the current governor has rebuffed the offer, declaring the former president is “neither wanted here, nor needed here,” and further criticizing his remarks. These statements follow a pattern of undermining checks and balances and using crime statistics to justify intervention in Democrat-led cities.
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Despite falling wholesale prices and no current bird flu outbreaks, retail egg prices reached a record high for the third consecutive month, reaching $6.23 per dozen. This surge, contradicting claims of price decreases, is attributed to the influence of large egg producers like Cal-Maine Foods, who reported record profits while receiving federal aid for avian flu losses. The Justice Department is investigating alleged price-fixing by major producers, highlighting concerns about corporate concentration and the exploitation of consumers. This situation underscores the need for addressing corporate monopolies and reforming the food system to lower prices.
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In response to record-high egg prices, the U.S. Department of Justice’s antitrust division is investigating Cal-Maine Foods, the nation’s largest egg producer. Despite record sales of $1.42 billion in the third quarter—primarily driven by increased egg prices—Cal-Maine’s stock fell after hours following the announcement. The investigation follows a bird flu outbreak that decimated the egg-laying chicken population, contributing to soaring egg prices and increased scrutiny of the company. Cal-Maine is cooperating with the investigation.
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John Q. Hosedrinker