Former Maine Governor LePage Launches Congressional Campaign in Democrat-Dominated GOP Stronghold
The upcoming bid poses a challenge to a Democratic incumbent in a predominantly rural district that consistently supported President Donald Trump in all three of his elections.
Former Governor Paul LePage of Maine announced on Monday his intention to run for the state’s 2nd congressional district, aiming to unseat a Democrat in this GOP stronghold.
LePage, who is a Republican, confirmed his congressional campaign in a social media announcement on Monday.
The former governor emphasized the need for more voices to challenge those opposing the president and his policies.
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LePage’s candidacy sets up a confrontation with Democratic incumbent Rep. Jared Golden in a largely rural area that showed strong support for Trump in his three campaigns.
After leaving the governor’s office in 2019, LePage, a stalwart Trump supporter, relocated to Florida and later returned to establish residency in Maine.
Moreover, a spokesperson for Golden emphasized that the congressman is currently focused on protecting Maine’s fishing communities, combating healthcare cuts, and securing jobs at Bath Iron Works shipyard rather than on reelection efforts.
During his reelection bid, Golden positioned himself as an independent voice, advocating his readiness to collaborate with legislators from both parties.
“I’ve been one of the most independent-minded members of Congress, emphasizing bipartisanship,” Golden stated in a debate last October, claiming he voted against President Joe Biden more than any other House Democrat.
He also highlighted his advocacy for the lobster industry, crucial to the economy of a region renowned for its lobster fishing and logging.
The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) responded to LePage’s challenge to Golden, stating, “Jared [Golden] endorses the radical Left transgender agenda because 90 percent of his funding comes from out-of-state liberals.” In their statement, they added that his record is completely misaligned with Maine’s values.
NTD, sister media of The Epoch Times, attempted to contact his Maine office to verify this claim but did not receive a response by the time of publication.
LePage’s attempt to return to politics marks his second effort after retiring, following his loss to Governor Janet Mills in 2022, which he attributed to the election’s focus on abortion rights. He mentioned during a debate that he would veto a bill to ban abortions at 15 weeks.
With Republicans holding a slim majority in the House, the 2nd congressional district in Maine is expected to be one of the most closely monitored races in the nation.
The midterm elections are scheduled for November 2026, with a total of 468 seats, including 33 Senate seats and all 435 House seats, up for election.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
From NTD News
