Maine Republicans Urge Trump to Revoke Gulf of Maine Offshore Wind Leases

Maine Republican lawmakers have urged President Trump’s administration to revoke all offshore wind leases in the Gulf of Maine, citing risks to the state's $3.2 billion fishing industry, over 33,000 related jobs, and concerns about rising energy costs. They argue that floating offshore wind technology remains experimental, costly, and disruptive, calling for cancellation of four commercial-scale leases auctioned in 2024 and the Maine Research Array lease. The lawmakers' letter applauds the administration’s recent termination of over $600 million in offshore wind projects nationwide and requests a comprehensive review of offshore wind regulations to prioritize affordable and proven energy sources. Governor Janet Mills and renewable energy advocates counter that offshore wind offers a vital alternative to fossil fuels, with potential to reduce energy costs and provide a reliable, clean energy supply. Environmental groups and industry leaders also contend that the lawmakers’ claims are based on flawed logic and misrepresentations of economic impacts. The debate reflects a broader national conflict over balancing environmental innovation with economic and industry concerns in coastal states like Maine.