Seven in Maine delegation are legislators

This year there were seven legislators in the Maine delegation to the Democratic National Convention, more than in recent history.

PolitickerME had the opportunity to talk with four state lawmakers at the delegation breakfast Thursday. State Rep. Elaine Makas (D-Lewiston) and Maine House Majority Leader Hannah Pingree (D-North Haven) are Obama delegates, and Rep. Cynthia Dill (D-Cape Elizabeth) and Sen. Phillip Bartlett (D-Gorham) are Clinton delegates.

In addition, Reps. Jon Hinck (D-Portland), Christopher Babbidge (D-Kennebunk) and Linda Valentino (D-Saco) spent the week in Denver.

They said that, as legislators, they benefit by being at the convention because they meet lawmakers from other states and are able to compare notes. “(It’s) also to be part of something larger. We realize how we fit in as part of the country and the whole electoral map,” Bartlett said.

Pingree’s mom, Chellie, is running for Congress in the First Congressional District, and stayed home this week to campaign.

Hannah Pingree said she has found herself representing Chellie in conversations with other lawmakers.

Many of the powerful politicians in Denver likely were state legislators at some point. When asked if any of them would consider seeking higher office, they laughed. “We’re all announcing our campaign for governor today,” Pingree said sarcastically.