Former Maine Governor and US Congressman Joe Brennan, a Democrat, passes away at the age of 89

Former Maine Governor and U.S. Congressman Joseph E. Brennan passed away at the age of 89 at his home in Portland, Maine. Brennan, whose upbringing in a working-class neighborhood shaped his political views, served two terms as governor and two terms in the U.S. House.

Brennan’s friend, Frank O’Hara, shared that the former governor died with his wife by his side, just blocks away from where he grew up in a third-floor tenement on Munjoy Hill. O’Hara highlighted Brennan’s commitment to public service, which stemmed from his experiences in the neighborhood.

Throughout his career, Brennan made significant contributions to Maine, including negotiating the Maine Indian Land Claims Settlement Act of 1980 and launching education reforms as governor. Former Democratic Governor Joe Baldacci praised Brennan for his integrity and dedication to improving the state.

Current Governor Janet Mills, who was appointed by Brennan as the first female district attorney in 1980, credited him with paving the way for her historic election as Maine’s first female governor. Additionally, Brennan’s appointment of George Mitchell to the U.S. Senate led to Mitchell becoming the majority leader.

George Mitchell expressed his condolences, describing Brennan as a “superb leader and lawyer” who understood the importance of justice in democracy. Brennan’s legacy lives on through his contributions to Maine and his impact on those he served.