Housing & Rent Pressure: In a Democratic governor forum in Portland, candidates argued over how to stabilize renters fast enough to prevent evictions, with one focus on rent relief and tenant protections. Local Economy & Jobs: Portland restaurant owners say staffing problems are tied less to people wanting work and more to the lack of affordable housing near jobs. Energy, Environment & Data Centers: A South Portland panel weighed the potential development of data centers in Maine, with concerns raised about water use and PFAS, even as the state’s data center advisory council moves forward. Water Quality & PFAS: Maine’s PFAS Fund completed the purchase of a second impacted farm property, while the DEP is seeking permits to use an aquatic herbicide to control invasive milfoil in several lakes. Health Care Dollars: New numbers show Portland Medicaid radiology payments jumped to $6.69M in 2024. Public Safety: Lewiston police say they used Flock cameras to help arrest suspects in a stolen Massachusetts dump truck chase that ended after a cruiser was rammed. Politics & Rights: The DOJ sued Maine and three other states over undercover license plate policies for federal agents, and Maine’s secretary of state finalized wording for a transgender sports referendum question that could still land on the ballot if an appeal succeeds.