Governor Janet Mills continues to redefine leadership in Maine with groundbreaking policies and record-breaking achievements. Elected in 2019 as the state’s first female governor and reelected in 2022 with historic voter support, Mills has transformed Maine’s economy, healthcare system, and education landscape.
Pandemic Leadership & Economic Boom
Mills steered Maine through the COVID-19 crisis with one of America’s highest vaccination rates (87%) and lowest death rates. Her administration’s balanced approach protected public health while securing $1.3 billion in federal relief funds. Post-pandemic, Maine’s GDP growth outpaced New England neighbors and even surpassed California and New York. Unemployment hit a 50-year low in 2024 at 2.8%.
Healthcare Revolution
The governor expanded Medicaid coverage to over 100,000 Mainers – slashing uninsured rates faster than any other state. Her opioid crisis response deployed $18 million from pharmaceutical lawsuit settlements to distribute 75,000 overdose-reversal kits statewide.
Education Overhaul
Mills made history again by fully funding K-12 schools for the first time since 2004. She implemented free community college for 2020-2023 graduates, boosting enrollment by 34%. Teacher salaries rose 15% under her “Teach Maine” initiative.
Taxes & Infrastructure Wins
| Policy | Impact |
|---|---|
| $900M Rainy Day Fund | Largest reserve in state history |
| Senior Tax Cut | $300M relief for retirees |
| Broadband Expansion | 85% rural coverage by 2025 |
What’s Next?
With a $125K salary increase taking effect in 2026, Mills faces new challenges:
- Addressing workforce shortages through $200M Jobs Plan investments
- Achieving carbon neutrality by 2045 via offshore wind projects
- Expanding affordable housing stock by 15,000 units by 2028
