PORTLAND (WGME) — Maine Democrats are focusing on rising heating costs as the state heads into what they say will be the most expensive winter of many people’s lives.
They’re pinning the blame for high prices on Senator Susan Collins.
Right now, the average cost of heating oil across the state is $5.97.
That’s up over $2.50 from this same time last year.
At Thursday’s press conference, Democrats in the state legislature spoke alongside leaders, slamming Collins for her continued votes to extend the war in Iran despite rising costs at home.
“Here in Maine, we are preparing for the most expensive winter of many of our lives,” Doris Poland with Maine AFL-CIO said. “All because Collins voted with Donald Trump and the oil companies lining her pockets and defense contractors powering her campaign.”
Meanwhile, the Trump administration this week announced the decision to release over 300,000 barrels of heating oil for New England states.
Collins urged the administration to take that step last month.
It’s unclear how much this could lower the cost of oil.