Maine Democratic Party Chair Bev Uhlenhake released the following statement:

“Representative Lucas Lanigan has won by only one vote in a district that leans heavily Republican, and where nearly a quarter of all ballots cast were received before news broke of his warrant, arrest, and pending criminal trial for felony domestic violence aggravated assault. The alleged incident, in which Rep. Lanigan reportedly strangulated his wife, is disturbing and disqualifying for anyone purporting to represent the people of Maine.

“While Rep. Lanigan is entitled to his day in court; the people of Shapleigh, Newfield, and Springvale deserve better. I call on Maine’s Republican Party & House leadership, Chairman Joel Stetkis & Minority Leader Billy Bob Faulkingham, to join me in demanding Rep. Lanigan’s immediate resignation from the Maine State House.”