AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) – Maine’s state auditor and former secretary of state, Matt Dunlap, announced on Monday his intention to challenge four-term Democratic Rep. Jared Golden in a primary election ahead of the upcoming midterms. This race is expected to be one of the most closely watched congressional contests in the nation.
Rep. Jared Golden, a moderate Democrat, represents Maine's 2nd Congressional District, which is known as one of the most politically diverse districts in the country. Despite Trump’s strong support in the last three presidential elections, Golden has successfully maintained his position in office. However, Dunlap criticized Golden for his perceived alignment with former President Donald Trump, stating that Golden has been too accommodating and that he would advocate more vigorously for the interests of Mainers.
Dunlap expressed his concerns, stating, “Golden has repeatedly sided with Trump, even when it means that health care costs will skyrocket for thousands of Mainers.” He indicates a belief that a more progressive stance is needed to better serve the constituents of Maine’s 2nd District.
The winner of the Democratic primary is poised to face Republican former Maine Governor Paul LePage. LePage, who served as governor from 2011 to 2019 and made an unsuccessful bid for the governorship again in 2022, began his campaigning months ago. He garners significant support from the 2nd District—a predominantly rural area with a more conservative voter base compared to the more liberal coastal 1st District.
Regarding his position, Golden emphasized the independent nature of the 2nd District and portrayed himself as the appropriate representative for its diverse ideological views. He remarked, “It’s one of the most ideologically diverse districts in the country, and deserves someone who represents it as it is. If Matt Dunlap thinks this district will choose him over Paul LePage, he’s got another thing coming.”
The importance of this district can’t be overstated; it is among a select few nationwide that may influence the control of the House of Representatives, where Republicans currently hold a narrow advantage. For Democrats, retaining Golden's seat is critical, as he narrowly defeated Republican opponent Austin Theriault in the 2024 election, despite the latter being a political newcomer.
The 2nd Congressional District is the largest by area east of the Mississippi River and is home to traditional industries such as forestry and lobster fishing—sectors that are vital to the state's economy.
Dunlap’s decision to enter the race signifies a growing sentiment among some that Golden is more beholden to partisan donors than to the residents of the district. Spokesperson Brent Littlefield, representing LePage's campaign, posited that Dunlap’s candidacy highlights a perceived disconnect from Golden. “Matt Dunlap sees what we see, Jared Golden is hiding. From Aroostook to Oxford and every county in between, Maine people say they never see Jared Golden in their towns or communities,” Littlefield asserted.
This developing political landscape in Maine’s 2nd District illustrates the complex dynamics at play as candidates prepare for the upcoming primaries in the face of a competitive midterm election season.
