Crossword Genius

Maine's not, unfortunately — this state? (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

minnesota

'this state?' is the definition.
(Minnesota is an example)

'maine's not unfortunately' is the wordplay.
'unfortunately' indicates anagramming the letters.
'maines'+'not'='mainesnot'
'mainesnot' with letters rearranged gives 'MINNESOTA'.

(Other definitions for minnesota that I've seen before include "North Star State" , "source of iron ore" , "Wobegon state (Keillor)" , "US state, capital St Paul" , "Superior neighbour" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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