Seven of the 16 candidates running for Maine governor in 2026 have pledged to support full sovereignty for the Wabanaki Nations, according to Maine Morning Star. Democrat Troy Jackson, former Maine Senate president, said he would submit legislation on day one to restore tribal sovereignty. Other Democrats, including Hannah Pingree and Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, and independent Rick Bennett also voiced support.
Some candidates, like Democrat Kenneth Pinet and Republican Kenneth Capron, expressed backing for tribal sovereignty without detailing legislation. Candidates including Jason Cherry support self-determination with caveats, while Republican James Libby opposed full sovereignty. The Wabanaki Nations — Houlton Band of Maliseet, Mi’kmaq Nation, Passamaquoddy Tribe and Penobscot Nation — remain limited under a 1980 land settlement that treats them similarly to municipalities, the report said.
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