State Policy Network is deeply saddened by the passing of Bill Becker, the first CEO of the Maine Policy Institute, a valued affiliate organization. Bill passed away on December 26, and we join his family, friends, and colleagues in mourning and celebrating the life of this remarkable leader.
In the early 2000s, Maine lacked a free-market hub where ideas and research could flourish. Recognizing this gap, Bill Becker, alongside other state leaders, founded the Maine Heritage Policy Center, a nonprofit policy organization that would later become the Maine Policy Institute.
Bill was the group’s first CEO and led the organization through significant growth—establishing it as a key player in state politics and policy. His leadership strengthened the influence of free-market ideas in a traditionally blue state. Over the years, the Maine Policy Institute has secured several policy wins that have improved the lives and livelihoods of those in the Pine Tree State.
Matthew Gagnon, Chief Executive Officer at the Maine Policy Institute, noted:
“I’ve never met someone with such boundless optimism about Maine and this country, and more passion for making the lives of those around him better. In my time as CEO of this organization, he has always been a valuable resource, quick to offer to help, or to give much needed advice. The conservative movement would not be what it is in Maine today without Bill’s tireless dedication to the people of this state, and the ideas he believed in. He will be missed.”
Tracie Sharp, president and CEO of State Policy Network, added:
“I was shocked and saddened to hear the news of Bill’s passing. I remember him from those early days when his leadership and force of personality helped the organization begin strong. Many have fond memories of when SPN brought the Annual Meeting to Portland in 2007. He will be dearly missed. My thoughts are with his family and those at Maine Policy Institute who knew him.”
Remembering Bill Becker
Maine Policy Institute
