Governor Janet Mills of Maine has vetoed legislation designed to curb foreign involvement in state elections, raising concerns about its potential impact on free speech and the involvement of local businesses. This veto marks the second time Gov. Mills has rejected such a measure, having previously vetoed a similar bill in 2021. The bill's future now rests with lawmakers, who will vote next week on whether to override the veto.

This legislation arose following Hydro-Quebec's significant spending to oppose a referendum concerning a $1 billion power line project. The project aimed to deliver Canadian hydropower to New England, but voters ultimately rejected the proposal. While Maine law prohibits foreign entities from contributing to political campaigns, it currently doesn't explicitly address spending on referendum campaigns, a loophole the vetoed bill sought to close.

Gov. Mills, while acknowledging the need to address undisclosed funding in elections, expressed reservations about the bill's broad language. She argued it could stifle legitimate voices, including Maine-based businesses, and create unnecessary administrative complexities. The governor maintained that her veto aligns with her support for free speech and a free press.