AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — Maine Gov. Paul LePage says his timing wasn’t the best when he ordered the removal of a mural about the state’s labor history from the Department of Labor in Augusta.
In his first public comments on the issue, which have drawn criticism from labor activists across the country, LePage said the public outcry was a distraction from efforts to implement his legislative agenda, such as streamlining regulations and providing tax relief for Mainers.
He told the Portland Press Herald he should have waited until after the legislative session.
He has called the mural anti-business.
The decision continues to draw criticism. On Thursday, the Portland Museum of Art issued a statement that said the removal of the mural tarnishes Maine’s reputation as a haven for artists.
___
Information from: Portland Press Herald, http://preprod.pressherald.com
-
- In this March 25, 2011 photo, Jessica Graham, right, of Waterville, Maine, leads a gathering in front of a mural honoring labor, in the Department of Labor building’s lobby in Augusta, Maine. The group gathered to honor the 100th anniversary of the New York Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, which killed 146 garment workers. The mural was taken down over the weekend after Gov. Paul LePage ordered it removed. (AP Photo/Kennebec Journal, Joe Phelan)
Send questions/comments to the editors.
