Political Dynamics Stir as LePage Enters Maine’s 2nd District Race

United States House of Representatives emblem on a podium.

Former Maine Governor Paul LePage has officially filed paperwork to launch a congressional bid for Maine’s 2nd District, setting up a potential battleground race that could shift the state’s political landscape.

Quick Takes

Former two-term Maine Governor Paul LePage has officially filed to run for Congress in Maine’s 2nd Congressional District.
LePage would challenge Democrat Jared Golden, who is reportedly considering a gubernatorial run.
Republicans view this district as a prime opportunity to flip a seat in 2026.
LePage’s platform emphasizes supporting Trump’s agenda, cutting wasteful spending, and opposing “extreme woke policies.”
The former governor previously lost his 2022 comeback bid against Janet Mills.

LePage Returns to Political Arena

Former Maine Governor Paul LePage is making a dramatic return to politics with his bid for Maine’s 2nd Congressional District. The “Paul LePage for Congress” committee was registered with the Federal Election Commission, according to documentation. LePage, who served two terms as Maine’s governor before losing a 2022 comeback attempt, has set his sights on the seat currently held by Democrat Jared Golden, who won his last election by fewer than 3,000 votes.

David Whitney, a Republican National Committee member, announced on social media that LePage would soon make a formal announcement about his congressional run. Meanwhile, Brent Littlefield, a longtime strategist for LePage, indicated there would be “more to say tomorrow” regarding the campaign launch. The timing of LePage’s announcement comes as political observers note Golden is reportedly considering a run for governor once Janet Mills reaches her term limit.

Former Maine Gov. Paul LePage has announced he is running for Congress. “I do not need a job, I am running to protect our Maine jobs,” he said. https://t.co/HJUzELRmex

— CBS 13 News (@WGME) May 5, 2025

LePage’s Conservative Platform

In a statement posted to his Facebook page, LePage outlined his reasons for seeking office, emphasizing what he perceives as Washington’s failures and the need for fresh leadership. He positioned himself as a strong supporter of President Trump, criticizing “entrenched interests” that he claims are obstructing the president’s agenda. The former governor’s platform centers on fiscal conservatism, support for the Second Amendment, and opposition to progressive policies.

“Today, I joined people in Eastport for breakfast and at the dock to talk about the need for a new voice in Washington, DC. The entrenched interests are fighting President Trump at every turn as he works to fix problems. We need more straight talk to help take back Washington. We need more real-world business experience, those who know how to create jobs. We need people who understand what it’s like to struggle, why inflation hurts,” LePage announced.

Political Comeback After Florida Residency

LePage’s bid represents a significant political comeback attempt following his defeat in the 2022 gubernatorial race against Janet Mills, where he received 42.4% of the vote compared to Mills’ 55.7%. After leaving the governor’s office due to term limits in 2019, LePage had changed his residency to Florida. Despite once claiming he was “done with politics,” LePage later re-established his Maine residency ahead of his unsuccessful 2022 gubernatorial campaign.

During his previous tenure as governor, LePage was known for his blunt style and divisive politics, frequently clashing with Democrats and the media. His time in office produced significant policy changes, including reduced income taxes, decreased welfare rolls, and a smaller state government. These accomplishments endeared him to conservatives, while his controversial statements and confrontational approach alienated others.

Battleground Congressional District

Maine’s 2nd Congressional District is viewed by Republicans as a prime target for flipping in 2026. The district leans slightly conservative despite being represented by Democrat Golden since 2018. Golden has managed to hold his seat through several tough elections by positioning himself as a moderate Democrat who occasionally breaks with his party on key votes. His narrow margin of victory in 2024 – less than 3,000 votes – signals potential vulnerability.

Political analysts note that if Golden decides to run for governor rather than seek reelection, the open seat would likely favor Republicans, especially with a candidate of LePage’s stature and name recognition. The former governor’s entry into the race signifies the high priority Republicans place on this district as they look to expand their majority in the House of Representatives.