AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) - The five Republicans on a committee of the Maine Legislature are opposing the nominee of Democratic Gov. Jane Mills to become the state’s next commissioner of public safety.
The Legislature’s Joint Standing Committee on Criminal Justice and Public Safety voted 8-5 Friday to recommend the confirmation of former Portland police chief Mike Sauschuck, who has been criticized by gun rights supporters.
To be confirmed, Sauschuck must receive a two-thirds vote from the 35-member state Senate. Democrats control the chamber 21-14 so to be approved, Sauschuck needs some Republican support.
Sauschuck has supported several gun control measures. Backers say he is a leader on criminal justice issues.
Critics say Sauschuck’s views are in conflict with the state constitution that says “every citizen has a right to keep and bear arms.”
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