What to Know About Maine Gov. Janet Mills Amid Clash With Trump

What to Know About Maine Gov. Janet Mills Amid Clash With Trump https://ift.tt/bYQgmFy Democratic Governor Janet Mills of Maine challenged President Trump's executive order on transgender athletes, leading to a federal investigation of her state's education department. Trump's administration warned that Maine could lose federal funding if it did not comply with the order. Mills refused to back down, stating that the issue extended beyond transgender athletes and questioned the president's authority to impose his will without regard for law. Mills' stance has made her a celebrated figure among Democrats, portraying her as a defender of civil rights and the rule of law. However, it has also made her a political target, with Republicans criticizing her for defying the president and potentially jeopardizing federal funding. The investigation by the Department of Education will probe whether Maine's education department violated federal laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex, including gender identity. Maine officials have defended their position, arguing that they are following state law and that the federal government lacks the authority to interfere with local school policies. The outcome of the investigation and the potential consequences for Maine remain uncertain, as the case could potentially end up in court.