Jackson sends message of bipartisanship with chamber seating chart

AUGUSTA—On Tuesday, Senate President-Elect Troy Jackson, D of Allagash, released the Senate Chamber seating chart for the upcoming legislative session. Traditionally, lawmakers sit with members of their own party on a designated side of the aisle in the chamber. This year, however, the Maine Senate will have a bipartisan seating arrangement – a first for the chamber in about 20 years.

“All too often, we find that lawmakers can’t work across the aisle,” said Sen. Jackson. “Today, we are going to change that. We are removing the partisan aisle. These senators of the 129th Legislature will sit side-by-side with members from the other party.”

The chamber seating chart is decided by the incoming Senate President in consultation with both Majority and Minority Leaders. The hope is that this mixed seating arrangement will foster a sense of congeniality, mutual respect and trust between members of opposing parties.

“The people of Maine sent us here to solve a host of complex problems that interfere with their ability to lead happy, healthy and successful lives,” said Sen. Jackson. “By focusing on the values and goals that unite us, we will be more likely to move the needle on critical issues.”

The 129th Maine Senate will be sworn in on Wednesday, December 5 at 9:30 a.m. The official 129th seating chart for the Senate can be accessed here.

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