Newest lawmaker headed to Maine State House

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — With the Maine legislative session in full swing, Republican Beth Turner of Burlington is wasting little time getting to work in Augusta.

Turner will be sworn into office on Thursday, two days after she defeated two opponents to win a special election for House District 11.

Her victory doesn't change the balance of power since the election was held to replace a Republican, Rep. Everett McLeod of Lee, who passed away in December. The House Republicans hold 78 seats, the Democrats have 72 and one member is unenrolled.

Unofficial tallies gave Turner 697 votes, while Democrat Deanna House of Lee received 557 votes. A write-in Republican received 106 votes.