Mr. LePage and his Democratic challenger, Matt Dunlap, were a far cry from being standard bearers of the generations that will inherit the legacy of today’s Congress.

Recent incidents of political violence have made me reassess the frequent threats against me and my family.

I don’t fear losing.

I have grown tired of the increasing incivility and plain nastiness.

Regardless of what angry partisan commentators may say, I retain the trust of the coalition of Democrats, independents and Republicans.

I’m very concerned about air traffic controllers.

I’ve won two statewide offices, and unlike other people in the primary right now, I’ve actually won public office, won elections.

I don’t think I could live with myself if I did not do this.

I expect the Maine people will have their voice heard, not the powers that be in Washington.

It’s urgent that I take this on.

Five or six guys in the race, none of them has won an election.

Honestly, I would not plan to serve for more than one term.

We have to stand up to the bullies in this administration and to Donald Trump.

I won't sit idly by while Maine people suffer and politicians like Susan Collins bend the knee as if this were normal.

We have fought back and we’ve won.

Look, primaries are healthy for a democracy. I look forward to a robust and civil debate and discussion of the issues.

See you in court.

I just came from the Senate floor, where I took one of the most difficult votes I’ve taken since I’ve been in the Senate.