'A superb leader': Tributes pour in as ex-Maine Governor and US Congressman Joseph E Brennan dies at 89

PORTLAND, MAINE: Joseph E Brennan, a towering figure in Maine politics renowned for his unwavering commitment to the working class, passed away on Friday evening, April 5, at the age of 89.

Brennan, whose upbringing in a humble neighborhood on Munjoy Hill shaped his ethos of public service, leaves behind a legacy marked by two terms as Maine's governor and two terms in the United States House of Representatives.

Shaped by Humble Roots

Brennan's lifelong dedication to public service was evident from his earliest days. Raised in a bustling tenement housing, his experiences in the vibrant working-class community fueled his passion for advocating for the underprivileged.

As Frank O'Hara, a close friend, reminisced, "His childhood in that neighborhood stayed with him throughout his political career."

A veteran of the US Army, Brennan seized educational opportunities afforded by the GI Bill, earning degrees from Boston College and the University of Maine Law School. His journey into politics commenced with a campaign for the Maine Legislature at the young age of 29.

Throughout his illustrious career, Brennan held various significant positions, including county district attorney, state attorney general, governor, and congressman. Former Governor Joe Baldacci hailed Brennan as "a dedicated servant" and praised his unwavering integrity during turbulent times.

“He was a man of the highest integrity, who led Maine through difficult times. He believed that he had an obligation to make things better, and he lived that ideal through his commitment to public education and improving the state’s economy,” Baldacci said.

Brennan's tenure as governor witnessed pivotal moments in Maine's history. Instrumental in negotiating the Maine Indian Land Claims Settlement Act of 1980, he demonstrated a commitment to fostering reconciliation and justice. Furthermore, his initiatives in education reform and highway safety underscored his dedication to improving the lives of Maine residents, per the New York Post.

Governor Janet Mills, appointed by Brennan as the first female district attorney in 1980, credited him for pioneering inclusivity and mentorship in politics.

“Gov Brennan demonstrated for me and others that politics is about building relationships, that public service is not about enriching yourself but about enriching the lives of others, and that the most important relationship is the one we have with the people we serve,” she said.

One of Brennan's enduring legacies was his astute appointment of George Mitchell, who ascended to become a prominent figure in the United States Senate.

“His family and the people of Maine have lost a great man, and I have lost a dear friend,” Mitchell said, calling Brennan “a superb leader and lawyer who understood the importance of a firm and fair system of justice in our democracy.”

Tributes Across the Aisle

Condolences poured in from across the political spectrum, highlighting Brennan's bipartisan appeal and enduring impact.

Republican Senator Susan Collins hailed Brennan's selfless service.

“Joe Brennan dedicated his life to public service, serving as Cumberland County District Attorney, in the Maine Legislature, as Maine’s Attorney General, as a twice-elected Governor, as a member of Congress, and as a member of the Federal Maritime Commission. He cared deeply for the people of his native state and served them well," Collins said. "My heart goes out to his wife Connie and to his children.”

Representative Chellie Pingree lauded Brennan's contributions to social justice and environmental protection.

“I’m saddened to hear of Joseph Brennan’s passing and offer my sincere condolences to his wife Connie, children Joseph (JB) and Tara, loved ones, and friends. Joe came from humble immigrant Irish beginnings and grew up in a large family of little means on Munjoy Hill. In return for the opportunities he received here, Joe devoted his life to public service—serving our state as Attorney General, as Governor, and as Congressman, in the seat I now hold. He truly was someone who always put others in front of himself. I do not think it would be wrong to suggest that he was one of Maine's greatest Governors. Joe was deeply committed to social justice, economic equality, and protecting our environment, and I always greatly appreciated his guidance and friendship. Maine will forever be grateful for his service, and he will be missed," Pingree wrote.

Former Governor and current Senator Angus King eulogized Brennan as a quintessential embodiment of the American dream.

"In many ways, Joe Brennan was the embodiment of the American dream," King said in a statement. "The son of a longshoreman who grew up in a working-class household and neighborhood, rising to hold the highest profile positions in the state: Maine State Senator, Attorney General, Governor, Member of Congress. His loss is a great loss for Maine – a stand-up, standout, decent man who strived to do the right thing for Maine."