Chellie Pingree

Republicans are looking to cut nearly $300 billion from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — formerly known as food stamps — in part by requiring states to share the costs of paying out benefits.

The Maine Republican, who is chairwoman of the budget-writing Senate Appropriations Committee, said the panel would hold an aggressive schedule of hearings on the White House's plan to cut more than $160 billion from federal programs.

Those attending the rally, organized by the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association and other groups, said the funding cuts, contract suspensions and other changes are especially challenging for small farms.

It is rare that members of Maine's congressional delegation hold in-person "town hall" meetings. But the predominant theme from the left-leaning crowd at Democratic Rep. Chellie Pingree's event was concern about the Trump administration's agenda.

Medicaid provides health coverage to nearly 25% of Mainers, according to federal data.

Canada is both the largest source of imported goods to Maine and the state's biggest export market, accounting an estimated $6 billion in cross-border trade last year.

Sen. Susan Collins steered clear of criticizing any one party in the meeting, which have clouded hopes for ending Ukraine's war with Russia.

The former president, who died Sunday at age 100, was described "a true model of servant leadership" by Gov. Janet Mills and by Sen. Angus King as someone who was forward-thinking and "unapologetic in his convictions."

Pingree faced challenges from Republican Ron Russell and Independent Ethan Alcorn.

During a press call organized by the Harris-Walz campaign, elected Democrats said a Harris administration would expand abortion access while protecting Medicare and Medicaid.