Ep. 173: Rep. Rachel Henderson on Maine’s Legislature, Child Deaths in State Care, and Democratic Obstruction

Chuck Ellis sits down with Representative Rachel Henderson (R-Oxford County) to discuss what really happens inside the Maine State Legislature.Rep. Henderson shares her journey from rural Maine roots — growing up in Rumford, working multiple jobs including milking cows at 4 a.m. — to serving on the powerful Judiciary Committee. She explains how a bill becomes law, the critical role of committees, and how Democratic leadership routinely circumvents the legislative process.Key topics include:- LD 127 and the fight for Government Oversight Committee access to investigate over 150 child deaths in DHS care- How Democratic leaders used parliamentary maneuvers to kill bipartisan legislation despite majority support in both chambers- Issues with transparency, fairness in public hearings, and committee procedures- Working across the aisle on public defense reform, AI-generated child exploitation material, and other legislation- The heavy weight of being in the minority and fighting for rural Maine valuesA candid, in-depth look at the inner workings of Augusta, the challenges facing lawmakers, and why local representation matters.**Key Takeaway:** Real oversight and accountability are essential — especially when protecting Maine’s most vulnerable children.If you want to understand how your state government actually operates behind the scenes, this episode is essential listening.**Follow & Support:**- Rep. Rachel Henderson for re-election in Oxford County- The Maine Wire for continued fearless coverageSubscribe, share with fellow Mainers, and stay engaged. All politics is local.