Billy Kobin

Staff Writer

Billy covers politics for the Press Herald. He joined the newsroom in 2026 after also covering politics for the Bangor Daily News for about two and a half years. Before moving to Maine in 2023, the Wisconsin native reported for the Courier Journal in Louisville, Kentucky, and the Indianapolis Star after graduating from Northwestern University. Billy feels like Maine is right where he needs to be, and apart from reading and enjoying music, he loves getting outside to run, hike, bike, ski and play soccer with friends and family.

Elections, Maine, News, Politics

Troy Jackson files to explore Senate run in case Graham Platner drops out

by Billy Kobin 22 hours agoJuly 7, 2026

Graham Platner’s political allies have all but abandoned him in the wake of a Maine woman accusing him of sexual assault.

Elections, Maine, News

Supreme Court ruling may help widen money advantage for Collins and Republicans in Senate race

by Billy Kobin July 1, 2026July 1, 2026

Republican-aligned groups have already sought to give U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, an advertising lead over Democrat Graham Platner.

Elections, News, Politics

Maine voters view which party controls Congress as more important than ‘character’ of candidates

by Billy Kobin June 29, 2026June 29, 2026

The results from The New York Times/Portland Press Herald/Siena poll hint at voter motivations in Maine’s high-profile races this year, including the US Senate contest.

Elections, Maine, News, Politics

How Maine differs from the other state with ranked-choice voting

by Billy Kobin June 25, 2026June 25, 2026

Alaska and Maine are the only states to use ranked-choice voting in certain statewide elections. Looking at how things work in Alaska offers perspective on whether Maine is actually slow in delivering results.

Elections, Maine, News, Politics

Republicans got their preferred Paul LePage opponent, but Maine’s 2nd District race is far from over

by Billy Kobin June 23, 2026June 22, 2026

State Auditor Matt Dunlap rose above the preferred choice of national Democrats, state Sen. Joe Baldacci, to win the primary. Republicans say they are happy that former Gov. Paul LePage is facing him in November.