When you think about strong, determined women in American politics, Janet Mills is a name that undoubtedly stands out. She’s not just Maine’s first female governor but also a political powerhouse who has spent her career championing policies that put people first. Whether it’s healthcare, climate action, or education, Mills has been a steadfast leader. But who is Janet Mills beyond politics? Let’s dive into her journey, family, net worth, and what makes her a standout leader in 2025.
Early Life and Education
Born on December 30, 1947, Janet Trafton Mills grew up in Farmington, Maine. That makes her 77 years old in 2025, still going strong in her leadership role. She hails from a politically active family—her father, Sumner Peter Mills Jr., was a lawyer and a U.S. Attorney for Maine, while her mother, Katherine Louise Coffin, was a teacher. It’s clear that public service runs in her blood.
Mills wasn’t always sure about politics. In her younger years, she considered a career in writing and even spent time studying in San Francisco before realizing her true passion lay in law and governance. She eventually earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts Boston and later a Juris Doctor from the University of Maine School of Law.
Family and Personal Life
Janet Mills has always been a private person when it comes to her personal life, but one thing is clear—she has faced her share of personal challenges with grace. She was married to Stanley Kuklinski, an artist and longtime friend, until his passing in 2014. Though she doesn’t have children, her extended family has always been a key part of her life, keeping her grounded despite the political whirlwind around her.
Even though politics is demanding, Mills makes time for activities she enjoys, such as hiking, reading, and spending time in Maine’s beautiful outdoors. She’s also known for her love of music, and rumor has it she still strums her guitar when she needs a break from policymaking.
Janet Mills’ Net Worth in 2025
Janet Mills’ career spans decades, and while she has held powerful positions, she has never been in politics for wealth. Her estimated net worth in 2025 is around $2 million, mainly stemming from her long career in public service, legal work, and investments. Unlike many high-profile politicians, Mills has always maintained a modest lifestyle, staying true to her Maine roots.
Political Career: Breaking Barriers and Making History
Mills started her political career in the late 1970s, but her big break came when she was elected Maine’s first female district attorney in 1980. This was a historic moment—not just for her, but for women in law enforcement. She was responsible for prosecuting criminal cases in three counties, proving herself to be tough yet fair.
From there, she went on to serve in the Maine House of Representatives and later as Maine’s Attorney General. She was the first woman to hold the Attorney General’s position in Maine—not once, but twice! During her tenure, she fought tirelessly for consumer protection, healthcare access, and civil rights.
Becoming Maine’s First Female Governor
In 2018, Janet Mills made history by becoming the first female Governor of Maine. Her election was a significant moment for the state, as it signified a shift towards progressive leadership with a focus on healthcare, economic development, and education.
During her tenure, Mills worked on several major policies, including:
- Expanding Medicaid in Maine to provide healthcare to thousands of uninsured residents.
- Fighting climate change with strong environmental protection laws.
- Boosting the economy by supporting small businesses and improving infrastructure.
- Investing in education to ensure Maine’s youth have access to quality schooling.
Her approach has always been pragmatic rather than partisan, and that has made her a leader who can appeal to both sides of the political spectrum.
Challenges and Controversies
No politician’s career is without hurdles, and Janet Mills has faced her fair share. One of the most challenging moments came during the COVID-19 pandemic, where she had to make tough decisions regarding lockdowns, vaccine distribution, and economic relief efforts. While some praised her for her handling of the crisis, others criticized her for restrictions on businesses.
Additionally, Mills has faced pushback from conservative lawmakers over tax policies, climate change initiatives, and gun control measures. However, she has remained steadfast, emphasizing bipartisan solutions rather than extreme measures.
