Maine House Bill LD1161

Maine 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/20/25
• Refer: 3/20/25
• Failed: 5/29/25

Caption

RESOLUTION, Proposing an Amendment to the Constitution of Maine Providing for the Popular Election of the Attorney General

Summary

LD 1161 is a proposed constitutional amendment that would change how Maine selects its Attorney General. Under current practice, the Attorney General is not elected by popular vote; this resolution would require the office to be filled by statewide election, beginning in 2026, on the same biennial schedule and in the same general manner used for elections to the Maine Senate and House of Representatives. The resolution also preserves a process for filling vacancies: if the office becomes vacant while the Legislature is not in session, the Governor could appoint a replacement, subject to the same confirmation requirements that apply to Supreme Judicial Court justices. If approved by voters, the amendment would be submitted at a statewide election, and upon a majority vote in favor, it would become part of the Maine Constitution after the Governor’s proclamation.

Impact

If enacted, LD 1161 would amend the Maine Constitution and shift the Attorney General from a selection process involving the Legislature to direct election by the people. This would affect the constitutional provisions governing the office of Attorney General, the timing and method of selection, and the handling of vacancies. It would also require election administration by cities, towns, plantations, and the Secretary of State for a statewide referendum and, if ratified, for future Attorney General elections.

Sentiment

Based on the bill text and the absence of committee transcripts or recorded votes, there is no documented debate or vote history to indicate a clear pattern of support or opposition. The measure’s framing suggests a reform-oriented proposal aimed at increasing direct voter control over a major constitutional office, but the available record does not show whether legislators or stakeholders were divided on the issue.

Contention

The main point of contention is likely to be whether the Attorney General should remain an office selected through legislative or appointment-based mechanisms versus being directly elected by voters. Supporters would likely emphasize democratic accountability and public control over the state’s chief legal officer, while opponents may raise concerns about politicizing the office, changing the balance of powers, or altering the independence of the Attorney General. No specific objections or endorsements are recorded in the provided materials.