Illinois Senator opposes Shah Senate bid, cites 2015 Legionnaires’ outbreak

(WGME) Sen. Tammy Duckworth, from the state of Illinois, is publicly opposing Dr. Nirav Shah’s run for the U.S. Senate in Maine, citing his past performance as Illinois’ public health director.

Duckworth posted on X Thursday that her opposition is based on Shah’s handling of a 2015 Legionnaires’ outbreak at a veterans home. Duckworth said Shah “put his image before the safety of veterans” during the outbreak, which resulted in the deaths of 13 people.

Shah has previously responded to criticism of how he handled the outbreak. During a debate on CBS13 when he was running for governor, Shah said, “If what we demand are leaders with unblemished records, then what we will get are leaders who have not been tested. I have been tested, I have learned, I am better for it, and that will make me a better governor for every single Mainer.”

Shah also responded directly to Duckworth’s comments, saying he was praised — including by Sen. Susan Collins — for how he handled the COVID-19 pandemic. He also reemphasized his willingness to answer questions in town halls across Maine.

Shah noted most Maine voters will likely not have a say in who gets the nomination, but said they still deserve to hear candidates’ thoughts in debates before taking on Collins.