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FIRST ON FOX: In a recent encounter, Maine’s Democratic Governor Janet Mills appeared to dismiss questions regarding her alleged past cocaine use. This interaction occurred during a video-recorded event and was obtained by Fox News Digital.
During a visit to Brodis Blueberries in Maine, Mills faced a provocative question: “Did cocaine give you the courage to stand up to President Trump at the governor’s breakfast?” This inquiry referenced a heated exchange between Mills and Trump at a National Governors Association meeting held at the White House in February, where the topic of biological men competing in women’s sports sparked significant debate.
Last month, Fox News Digital reported exclusive findings indicating that the Department of Justice contradicted Mills’ longstanding claim that the investigation into her alleged cocaine use was fueled by political motives.
Despite the implications of the question, Mills responded by laughing and continuing on her way. A follow-up query asked, “Have you ever been under the influence while making critical decisions for the state of Maine?” Mills chose not to respond and maintained her pace.
Fox News Digital sought a response from Mills’ office but did not receive an immediate reply.
The origins of the controversy trace back to early 1990, when the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Maine, alongside the Drug Enforcement Administration and Maine’s Bureau of Intergovernmental Drug Enforcement, initiated an investigation into Mills. At that time, Mills served as a district attorney and was accused by a drug suspect of cocaine use. Ultimately, the investigation concluded without any charges.
Mills has consistently asserted that the investigation lacked merit, claiming it was a politically motivated attack stemming from her Democratic affiliation and her critiques of the Bureau of Intergovernmental Drug Enforcement. Notably, in 1990, she and two other district attorneys publicly criticized BIDE for inflating arrest metrics by cracking down excessively on minor drug offenses.
Earlier, in November 1991, Mills voiced concerns about the investigation, stating to the Portland Press Herald, “It’s scary. Maine apparently has a secret police force at work that can ruin the reputation of any who opposes it.”
Further documentation, specifically a memorandum from March 1995 from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Professional Responsibility, debated Mills’ assertions. The memo, addressed to an early deputy attorney general, revealed no misconduct from federal or state entities regarding the investigation.
According to the DOJ memo, a report by WCSH-TV in December 1990 indicated that Mills was under federal grand jury scrutiny for drug use, based on law enforcement insights. Following this news, Mills took legal action against the reporter for alleged libel and slander. Her attorney even requested a grand jury investigation, contending that the press had received unauthorized leaks from BIDE officials.
The outcomes of Mills’ lawsuit have since vanished from public records. According to the case docket, records were disposed of in 2015, aligning with the standard policy. However, a 1991 article from the Lewiston Sun-Journal noted that an attempt to quash rumors surrounding the drug investigation was ultimately dismissed by a judge.
Recently, Mills confronted scrutiny once again in Washington, D.C., regarding the same allegations. In an exchange reported by Fox News Digital, Mills expressed her frustration when asked if “sniffing cocaine at work” constituted a “human right,” exclaiming, “What the f—?”
Looking toward the future, longtime Republican Senator Susan Collins, who is scheduled for re-election in 2026, may face Mills as a potential Democratic contender in her bid for the Senate. Mills’ term as governor ends next year, but earlier this spring, she indicated, “I do not plan to run for another office,” while also acknowledging the unpredictability of political timelines, suggesting a Senate run is not entirely off the table.
In light of these developments, the ongoing narrative surrounding Mills’ alleged past cocaine use intersects with broader political themes in Maine. This situation underscores the dynamic landscape of Maine politics, particularly as Mills approaches the end of her gubernatorial term.
Political analysts will likely keep a close eye on Mills’ actions as she navigates questions surrounding her past. This scrutiny may influence public perception and voter behavior as Maine prepares for upcoming elections. Such interactions between leadership and accountability are more important than ever in today’s political climate.
If Mills does choose to pursue a Senate run, the implications of her past and her handling of related allegations could play a pivotal role in her campaign strategy. Voters may demand transparency and accountability from their elected officials, shaping the narrative as Maine moves forward.
