Maine Republican loses reelection bid after domestic violence allegations

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence and would like to talk with an advocate, call 866-834-4357, TTY 1-800-437-1220. This free, confidential service is available 24/7 and is accessible from anywhere in Maine.
A Democrat has unseated the Sanford Republican who is accused of choking a woman last month when confronted about an alleged affair.
Patricia Kidder managed to unseat Rep. Lucas Lanigan 2,899 to 2,777, according to unofficial election results reported at 1:19 a.m. Wednesday.
Just two years ago, Lanigan won his bid for the House District 141 seat, which includes part of Springvale, part of Sanford, Newfield and Shapleigh, by 12 points. His political fate became more precarious after he was charged with domestic violence aggravated assault last week. That news prompted calls for his resignation from prominent Maine Democrats.
On Oct. 25, Lanigan’s romantic partner confronted him and another woman at Springvale Safe Storage on River Street about an affair around 12:45 p.m., according to the affidavit signed by Sanford police Sgt. Jeremy Riddle.
An argument ensued, during which Lanigan allegedly put his hands around his partner’s throat and “choked her for approximately 20 seconds,” Riddle wrote.
She freed herself and returned home, where she called friends, who then reported the alleged assault to police about 3:03 p.m., according to the affidavit. The BDN does not name alleged victims of violent crimes without their consent.
She was then taken to Maine Medical Center in Portland, where an examination found bruising around her neck, as well as small marks on her face and nose and in her mouth consistent with bleeding under the skin, according to the affidavit.
Lanigan turned himself in at the York County Jail at 9:30 a.m. on Oct. 28. He made his first appearance in court on the domestic violence charge on Oct. 30. During that hearing, his partner denied the assault happened, saying the case should be dropped.
He will appear in court again in March. Lanigan’s attorney, William Bly, said last week that his client intends to enter a not guilty plea, adding that Lanigan intends to fight the charges, which he believes lack merit.