Robert Macdonald, a frequent critic of public assistance programs, says ‘I hope this makes people think twice about applying for welfare.’
Eric Russell
Staff Writer
Eric Russell has been a general assignment reporter at the Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram since 2012 and has been a journalist in Maine since 2004. Because he doesn’t have a specific geographic or topical area to cover, Eric often is free to roam the state in pursuit of the most interesting stories, whether it’s tackling the big topic of the day or chasing ideas that fall just outside the boundaries of everyday news. His favorite assignments are ones where he can leave the office and meet with people in their homes or their workplaces to talk about their struggles and challenges – and sometimes their triumphs. Or to try and answer complicated questions. Eric grew up in Southern Maine, went to college at the University of Maine and worked in Bangor for eight years before joining the Press Herald. He lives in Brunswick with his wife, a school teacher, and two daughters.
Anonymous donor, inspired by pope, gives $60,000 to build home for Somali family
The donation to Habitat for Humanity of Greater Portland will pay for construction of a home in Scarborough.
Maine Republicans plan petition drive to put welfare, income tax on state ballot
Party leaders want voters to decide on income tax and welfare cuts that mirror Gov. LePage initiatives rejected by the Legislature.
State’s effort to force drug on defendant before trial sparks debate
Leroy Smith III’s case raises questions about how far the state can go to ensure its murder case moves ahead.
Hazing incident cited as South Portland suspends member of football team from school
The discipline, which Superintendent Ken Kunin said stems from a hazing incident, comes a day after players were questioned about reports of pills in the locker room, say two parents of players.
Gov. LePage freezes additional project funds for Land for Maine’s Future
After withholding voter-approved bonds, he continues to assert control over land conservation by blocking use of existing cash.
Can Gloucester’s radical drug-crisis strategy work for Maine?
The Massachusetts city’s police chief has made headlines by offering amnesty to drug users in exchange for treatment. Maine communities are taking a closer look.
Rare cottontails released in old haunts to help restore species
Private landowners in the Northeast will work with government agencies to conserve critical habitat for the cottontails, already designated as an endangered species under Maine law.
Rep. Chellie Pingree announces she and Donald Sussman are divorcing
Maine’s congresswoman says the split with her husband of four years is amicable and a mutual decision.
Maine’s Sen. Susan Collins says no to Iran nuclear deal
The Republican member of the Senate Intelligence Committee says the deal doesn’t do enough to dismantle Iran’s nuclear program – but her vote won’t stop it from moving forward.