WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today expressed heartfelt gratitude towards his longtime state staffer Chris Rector upon his retirement. Rector, a former state legislator, worked on behalf of Senator King as Regional Representative to address local needs and concerns in Knox, Waldo, Hancock and Washington Counties for nearly a decade, before retiring on February 2nd.

“There aren’t words that will sufficiently convey my gratitude for Chris’ service to the state of Maine,” said Senator King. “He had exceptional vision for a prosperous Maine future for generations ahead, while also remaining mindful of the day-to-day trials and triumphs of our neighbors. Nothing was a more clear demonstration of his humanity and local commitment than his daily ringing of the local church bell to honor our health care workers throughout the pandemic – for over 400 days in a row; rain, sun, sleet or snow – and it’s that tactile connection to his community that is a model for us all.”

Senator King’s entire state staff is dedicated to helping Maine people navigate the federal government’s broad reach to respond to their needs, and answer questions about the government’s actions and operations. As one of Senator King’s Regional Representatives spread across the state, Rector’s retirement will mean changes in state staff duties and responsibilities.

In the days and weeks ahead, Regional Representative Edie Smith of Glenburn will extend her positive energy and expertise to Washington County where she has deep ties and familiarity. A native of Winthrop, a 1981 graduate of Bowdoin College, and she has been active in state politics and policy for over 40 years, Edie is excited to add Washington County in her area of service in northern and eastern Maine for Senator King. Edie will continue to serve Piscataquis and Penobscot Counties.

Responding to and serving for Hancock, Waldo and Knox Counties will be Christina Valar Breen of Holden. Christina currently serves Mainers for Senator King in his Bangor office as Constituent Services Representative and is a 1991 graduate of the University of Maine School of Law. Breen brings years of experience and a working knowledge of the region she will cover, having served in the public sector at both the state and federal levels. As she assumes her role as Regional Representative, Christina will continue to serve the state as one of Senator King’s Constituent Services Representatives.