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PORTLAND (AP) — Former Maine Sen. Joseph Brannigan of Portland has died after battling cancer. He was 83.

WGME (http://bit.ly/1KU34Fn ) reported that Brannigan died in Portland on Saturday.

Brannigan, a Democrat, served in the Maine Legislature for 28 years — seven terms as a state representative and seven terms in the Maine Senate.

He also served as executive director of Shalom House in Portland — a home for mentally disabled adults.

Maine Democratic party chairman Phil Bartlett described Brannigan as a true statesman who eased the tension during heated debates.

He is survived by his wife, Claire, and a son.

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