On Tuesday, Maine held its state primary, which has paved the way for a potential game-changing race in the 2nd Congressional District. The outcome of this race could have a significant impact on which party ultimately gains control of the U.S. House and Senate in the upcoming year.
In the upcoming general election in November, Democrat Representative Jared Golden, who is running for his third term, will be facing Republican state Representative Austin Theriault from Fort Kent. It is noteworthy that Theriault has received support from former President Donald Trump.
The 2nd district race in Maine is considered a toss-up, according to the Cook Political Report. This district, which covers all of Maine except for the southernmost areas, is particularly vulnerable to a Republican challenge, especially since it has twice voted for Trump in the past.
Former NASCAR driver, Theriault, 30, received an endorsement from both U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson and former President Donald Trump. The day prior to the primary, Trump urged Mainers to vote for Theriault in a post on Truth Social. In the Republican primary held on Tuesday, Theriault triumphed over state Representative Michael Soboleski, R-Phillips, with a 66.2% to 33.8% victory.
In a post published on X Tuesday night, Theriault expressed his gratitude for being chosen by the people of his beloved state, calling it the greatest honor of his life. He acknowledged the support he has received and emphasized that his campaign is centered around fighting for the people. According to him, now is the time to prioritize the needs of the people over political agendas.
After completing tours in Iraq and Afghanistan during his time in the Marines, Golden had been a staunch supporter of gun rights. However, his perspective shifted following the tragic mass shooting that occurred in Lewiston, Maine in 2023. While he still upholds the Second Amendment, he now advocates for the discontinuation of the sale of AR-15-style rifles.
Chellie Pingree to face Ronald Russell
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The heavily Democratic-leaning 1st district of Maine has advanced veteran Ronald Russell as their primary winner, who will be facing off against the unopposed Democratic Representative Chellie Pingree in the November general election. Pingree has been serving in Washington since 2009 and poses a formidable challenge for Russell.
Despite winning the Republican primary with a significant margin of 56.1% to 43.9% against Andrew Piantidosi, Russell faces a challenging task against the incumbent congresswoman.
Who will run against Angus King?
Demi Kouzounas, a Republican, and David Allen Costello, a Democrat, emerged as the winners of their primaries uncontested.
Popular independent Senator Angus King, who has been representing Maine in the U.S. Senate since 2013, will be their opponent in the upcoming race. He didn’t participate in a primary election, but instead qualified for the ballot by gathering over 5,000 signatures through petition.
Come November, voters will have the chance to cast their ballots for Jason Cherry, a fresh face in politics hailing from Unity. Despite being an independent candidate, Cherry has managed to secure a spot on the general election ballot.
The news piece featured on Portsmouth Herald highlights that a candidate supported by Donald Trump has successfully secured the opportunity to contest against Representative Jared Golden for the U.S. House.
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