Maine's Bear Hunting Referendum Fails

In Maine, voters defeated Ballot Question 2 on Election Day.

The referendum would have prohibited using bait, dogs, and traps to hunt bears.

Hunters and trappers are claiming a significant victory for what they say is their rural Maine heritage.

But that victory may have come at a price.

Supporters of the measure portrayed bear hunters as cruel and unsporting.

Maine Public Radio's Susan Chisholm reports.