AUGUSTA, Maine – The Maine Senate on Tuesday formally recognized Steve Robinson, editor in chief of The Maine Wire, honoring him for receiving a national journalism award for investigative reporting.
Robinson was recognized on the Senate floor after receiving the 2025 Dao Prize for Best Multimedia Reporting, presented by the National Journalism Center. The prize was awarded for Robinson’s investigative series examining the role of Chinese criminal organizations in rural America, work that lawmakers said brought national attention to issues affecting Maine.
“This award recognizes courageous journalists and gives recognition often ignored by other organizations and media outlets,” Sen. Trey Stewart (R) said during remarks delivered in the chamber. “Prize-winning journalism that stands out for accuracy and courage is exactly what Steve represents.”
The Dao Prize is an annual award recognizing excellence in investigative journalism. In 2023, the Dao Fang and Angelo Foundation partnered with the National Journalism Center to honor journalists advancing the public interest through in-depth reporting. The award is open to U.S.-based news publications, independent reporters and media outlets, with entries evaluated on investigative depth, public interest, fairness, accuracy and style.
Stewart noted Robinson’s long career in media and investigative reporting, describing him as “a Mainer through and through.” Robinson is a native of Dexter and a graduate of Bowdoin College. Before joining The Maine Wire, he worked as an executive producer for the Howie Carr Show and the Kirk Minihane Show at Barstool Sports.
Robinson also produced The Case, a podcast investigation into the 1989 disappearance of Jennifer Fay that gained national attention.
Maine Wire reporter Jon Fetherston, who was also in attendance in the Senate chamber, said Robinson’s leadership was crucial to the organization’s success.
“Steve Robinson leads by example,” Fetherston said. “He puts in the work, asks the hard questions, and never flinches when the truth gets uncomfortable. His leadership is steady, principled, and grounded in accountability. People follow him because they respect and trust him—and that trust is earned every day.”
During the Senate presentation, Stewart highlighted several of Robinson’s major reporting projects, including investigations into illicit marijuana operations in rural Maine, alleged election irregularities, MaineCare fraud allegations, and reporting involving Gateway Community Services and no-bid state contracts.
“Investigative reporting can be a very dangerous thing,” Stewart said. “Sometimes journalists put themselves in harm’s way, and I appreciate the fact that Steve and his team are being recognized on a national level.”
The Senate adopted an official expression extending congratulations and best wishes to Robinson and directing that the recognition be sent on behalf of the Legislature and the people of Maine.
Robinson was present in the Senate chamber as a guest of Stewart and rose to receive the greetings of the Senate.
