In an era where public officials are facing increased threats and even violent attacks, Maine Governor Janet Mills is ramping up security around her official home.
The timing, however, has raised eyebrows—coming just days after she faced questions about decades-old allegations involving drug use.
Blaine House Gets a $4.5 Million Security Upgrade
Crews are currently working around the clock at the Blaine House, Maine’s governor’s residence, to build a new reinforced perimeter.
The $4.5 million project, based on a 2018 security assessment, includes a solid stone and metal wall to replace the older wooden picket fence.
Images from the site show temporary steel fencing already up, and the new design is set to feature enhanced lighting, surveillance cameras, and a more comprehensive security system.
A spokesperson for Mills said the new setup will be “more substantial” and offer “greater security” for the historic property.
Drug Allegation Resurfaces Amid Construction
The security overhaul coincides with renewed attention on past allegations against Governor Mills.
While she’s never been charged with any crime, Mills was investigated in the 1990s over alleged cocaine use—an inquiry she has long insisted was politically motivated.
That story was back in the spotlight recently when an activist confronted the 77-year-old governor in Washington, D.C., questioning her directly and rather crudely.
In a now-viral video, the man asked, “Is sniffing cocaine at work a human right, Janet?” Mills responded, clearly irritated, with “What the f***?”
He then pushed further, asking how inflation has impacted the price of an “eight ball”—slang for a small portion of cocaine.
Mills didn’t engage further and walked away without another word.
DOJ Says No Evidence of Political Targeting
The confrontation came shortly after a memo from the Department of Justice surfaced, effectively dismissing Mills’ long-standing claim that the 1990s investigation was politically charged.
The memo, dating back to 1995, concluded that her allegations of falsified testimonies and pressured witnesses were “unsubstantiated.”
At the time of the original investigation, Mills was serving as a district attorney.
She had been named in a tip by a drug suspect, prompting a probe by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the DEA, and Maine’s Bureau of Intergovernmental Drug Enforcement (BIDE).
She later claimed the investigation was retaliation for her progressive views and outspoken criticism of BIDE.
Mills Has History of Political Clashes
Governor Mills is no stranger to controversy, particularly with conservatives.
She gained national attention for her refusal to enact a ban on transgender athletes competing against biological women—a move that put her in direct opposition to then-President Donald Trump.
In a 1991 interview with the Portland Press Herald, Mills voiced concern over what she called a “secret police force” capable of ruining reputations.
Her lawsuit against a local TV station at the time accused law enforcement officials of leaking information to the press during the investigation.
Rising Violence Fuels Security Concerns
While some critics question the timing of the new security wall, the increased precautions come in the wake of a wave of violence targeting political leaders.
Just this past April, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s residence was nearly burned down after a man named Cody Balmer jumped the fence and attempted arson.
Court documents later revealed Balmer had planned to beat Shapiro with a sledgehammer.
In June, former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband were tragically murdered in their home.
Federal authorities have charged Trump supporter Vance Boelter with their killings, along with the attempted murder of two other Democratic lawmakers.
Boelter now faces multiple counts, including murder, stalking, and firearm offenses.
A Wall of Protection—and Political Symbolism?
So, is the steel wall around Blaine House just about security—or is there more to the story? While the official line is all about safety, the backdrop of resurfaced drug allegations and increasing political polarization has added layers of complexity to what might otherwise be a straightforward construction project.
As crews continue building through the summer, the political heat surrounding Governor Mills doesn’t appear to be cooling down anytime soon.