Maine Attorneys General: A Comprehensive Historical Record
The office of the Attorney General serves as the chief legal officer for the state of Maine, providing legal counsel to the government and representing the state in judicial proceedings. Since the state's early years, this role has been held by a diverse array of legal professionals reflecting the shifting political landscape of the region.
From the early 19th century to the present day, the leadership of Maine's legal department has transitioned through various political eras, moving from the Democratic-Republicans of the 1820s to the modern Democratic and Republican administrations.
ไม่มีภาพประกอบKey Facts
- First Attorney General: Erastus Foote took office in 1820.
- Current Incumbent: Aaron Frey has served since 2019.
- Longest Tenure Trends: The office has seen periods of stability and rapid turnover, with some individuals serving non-consecutive terms.
- Political Diversity: The office has been held by members of the Democratic-Republican, Democratic, Whig, and Republican parties.
Historical Timeline of Leadership
The early history of the office was dominated by the Democratic-Republican and Democratic parties. Erastus Foote established the precedent for the role starting in 1820. By the mid-19th century, the Whig party and the emerging Republican party began to influence the appointment and election of the state's top lawyer.
The 19th Century Transition
Throughout the 1800s, the office saw a significant shift toward Republican leadership. Notable figures such as Thomas Brackett Reed and William P. Frye held the position during the latter half of the century, marking a period of Republican dominance that lasted through much of the early 20th century.
Modern Era and Recent Appointments
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the office has seen a return to Democratic leadership. Janet Mills is a notable figure in recent history, having served two separate terms (2009–2011 and 2013–2019) before the current tenure of Aaron Frey began in 2019.
Summary of Maine Attorneys General
| No. | Name | Term Start | Term End | Party |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Erastus Foote | 1820 | 1831 | Democratic-Republican |
| 12 | John S. Abbott | 1855 | - | Republican |
| 29 | Hannibal Emery Hamlin | 1905 | 1908 | Republican |
| 49 | Joseph E. Brennan | 1975 | 1979 | Democratic |
| 55/57 | Janet Mills | 2009/2013 | 2011/2019 | Democratic |
| 58 | Aaron Frey | 2019 | Present | Democratic |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the first Attorney General of Maine?
The first person to hold the office of Attorney General in Maine was Erastus Foote, who began his tenure in 1820.
Which political parties have held the office?
The office has been held by members of the Democratic-Republican, Democratic, Whig, and Republican parties.
Has any Attorney General served non-consecutive terms?
Yes, several individuals served non-consecutive terms, including Daniel Goodenow (1838 and 1841), George Evans (1853-1854 and 1856), William Robinson Pattangall (1911-1912 and 1915-1916), and Janet Mills (2009-2011 and 2013-2019).
Who is the current Attorney General of Maine?
The current Attorney General is Aaron Frey, who took office in 2019.
How long did the earliest Attorney General serve?
Erastus Foote, the first Attorney General, served from 1820 until 1831.