PORTLAND, Maine — Maine residents, immigration advocates and community leaders expressed cautious optimism Thursday following an announcement from US Senator Susan Collins that the federal government had ended its recent immigration enforcement surge in the state.

South Portland Mayor Elyse Tipton said some families feared leaving their homes and being arrested by federal immigration enforcement agents.

Some small-business owners in Portland, Maine, are debating how best to support staff and customers amid a federal immigration crackdown.

More than 50 shops and restaurants are participating in a nationwide strike, which will include a protest in Portland's Monument Square.

SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine — Portland Water District officials are investigating a water main break on Ocean Street in South Portland. South Portland Police blocked off the roadway between Broadway and Highland Avenue after 5:00 a.m. on Thursday.

The mayor of Portland, Maine, said he wants to personally speak with the acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as the agency expands operations in his city and state. “That’s a person just like me,

Students in Portland, Gorham, Yarmouth and Lewiston have planned demonstrations Friday in conjunction with a national strike, while pupils at some Midcoast schools say they will walk out Monday.

An apprenticeship program that passes on skills like Cambodian dance is persevering despite funding threats and ICE agents.

Portland, Maine, is getting its very first dog bar and restaurant thanks to Woof Play Eat. News about the pup-friendly spot was reported by Portland Food Map back in May 2025, when the business leased the 15,000+ square feet of space at 49 Northport Drive.