Democratic leaders: ‘Censure’ is no solution to governor’s behavior

AUGUSTA — Democratic leaders in the Legislature released the following statement regarding Republican Sen. Amy Volk’s response to the governor’s most recent behavior, and the concerns they raise about his capacity to lead:

“We were heartened to see that Sen. Volk recognizes the severity of the problem presented by the governor’s current state, whether it is caused, as she puts it, ‘by substance abuse, mental illness or just ignorance.’ However, we want to make one thing clear: Censure is not an option. The governor has displayed behavior that indicates he is not in control of himself and unfit to carry out the serious duties of his office. That is the fundamental problem and it can only be resolved by his stepping down from office. ”

The Democratic leaders (Senate Democratic Leader Justin Alfond, Assistant Senate Democratic Leader Dawn Hill, Speaker of the House Mark Eves, House Majority Leader Jeff McCabe and Assistant House Majority Leader Sara Gideon) on Saturday sent a letter to top Republicans in the Legislature, urging them to take the necessary steps to hold the governor accountable.

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