SUN JOURNAL • February 18, 2026
Last November, the five chiefs of the Wabanaki Nations met with Gov. Mills to discuss our tribal legislative priorities. The governor was respectful, honest and welcoming. She spoke openly about her concerns about the expansion of gaming in Maine, but also made it clear she is interested in finding ways to support the tribes. We felt this meeting was the best we’ve had with any Maine governor. When she announced her decision earlier this month to allow LD 1164 — the bill to allow the Wabanaki Nations to benefit from iGaming — to become law, we were beyond elated. The governor had extended herself in friendship and trust, and the Wabanaki Nations now have a great achievement to celebrate. This represents the most significant economic progress for the tribes. ~ Pos Bassett, chief of the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Sipayik; William Nicholas, chief of the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township