Pingree begins hiring process for Maine administration

Transition team begins review

Governor-elect Hannah Pingree has started selecting senior officials for her incoming Maine administration, appointing a 22-member transition committee to help evaluate candidates. She introduced the group Tuesday during a news conference at the state legislative office building in Augusta.

The committee expects to review hundreds of resumes and referrals. Pingree said the search will be broad and careful, with qualifications guiding the choices. She plans to announce all 16 cabinet commissioners before her Jan. 6, 2027, inauguration.

Transition committee leadership

Roger Katz and Maulian Bryant will co-chair the committee. Katz is a former state senator and Augusta mayor. Bryant is executive director of the Wabanaki Alliance and a member of the Penobscot Nation Tribal Council.

Katz said the committee will help identify people to lead state government. Bryant emphasized finding leaders who have integrity, listen to others and serve Maine residents. Transition committee members are not expected to seek jobs in the new administration.

Pingree’s hiring priorities

Pingree said she wants leaders focused on results, integrity and accountability to Maine residents. She also identified public service, collaboration and optimism about Maine’s future as qualities she is seeking.

Pingree, a Democrat, said she is open to appointing Republicans and independents to senior roles. She said qualifications will be the central consideration when choosing members of her administration. Katz previously served in the Legislature as a Republican.