Former Maine Governor Paul LePage Launches Bid for Congress in 2026
AUGUSTA, Maine — In a surprising move, former Governor Paul LePage has officially entered the race for the 2nd Congressional District, setting the stage for a potential showdown with incumbent Democratic U.S. Rep. Jared Golden. LePage filed his candidacy late Sunday, an announcement he made while dining at a restaurant in Machias, and is expected to elaborate on his campaign in a Monday statement.
LePage, who largely resided in Florida since leaving office in 2019 due to term limits, had previously seemed to step back from politics after a disappointing 2022 gubernatorial defeat to Democrat Janet Mills. However, speculation about his return began circulating within Maine Republican circles this past winter.
The 76-year-old politician is entering a highly competitive race, particularly if Golden opts to run for governor, a move that could leave the seat wide open for a Republican challenge. Golden narrowly retained his position in 2024, winning by fewer than 3,000 votes against Republican Austin Theriault. Should Golden vacate his seat, political analysts predict a strong possibility of a Republican takeover.
As LePage embarks on his congressional campaign, he faces crucial questions regarding his voter registration and connection to Maine, as he remains listed as a Florida voter. He would also be among the oldest freshman congressmen if elected. Known for his brash style and significant veto record during his tenure as governor, LePage was an early supporter of Donald Trump but later criticized the former president’s false election claims, suggesting they had detrimental effects on Republican candidates.
Despite the scrutiny, LePage retains considerable support among Maine’s grassroots Republicans. With other potential candidates contemplating their own runs, his entry could complicate their prospects, unless national GOP figures intervened.
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