Democratic Rep. Jared Golden has decided to seek a fifth term in Maine’s Trump-friendly 2nd Congressional District rather than pursuing statewide office, setting up a high-stakes battle against former Republican governor Paul LePage.
At a Glance
- Rep. Jared Golden, a moderate Democrat, will run for re-election in Maine’s 2nd District instead of seeking statewide office
- Former Republican Governor Paul LePage is running for Golden’s congressional seat
- Golden, a Marine veteran first elected in 2018, narrowly won re-election in 2022
- The National Republican Congressional Committee has targeted Golden’s seat for the 2026 cycle
- Golden is focusing on helping Democrats regain control of the House of Representatives
Golden Chooses Congressional Re-election Over Statewide Aspirations
Democratic Representative Jared Golden has announced his intention to seek a fifth term representing Maine’s 2nd Congressional District, ending speculation about a potential run for governor or Senate. Golden, a Marine veteran who first won his seat in 2018, has chosen to continue representing the rural, working-class district that twice voted for former President Donald Trump rather than pursue higher office. His decision comes as Democrats seek to regain control of the House of Representatives in the upcoming election cycle, with Golden’s seat representing a critical battleground.
“While I have considered many options for how best to continue serving the people of Maine, I have decided to run for re-election because the surest way to restore balance in Washington is for Democrats to win back the House of Representatives,” Golden said in his announcement.
LePage Challenge Creates High-Stakes Showdown
Golden’s decision sets up a high-profile contest against former Republican Governor Paul LePage, who has already declared his candidacy for the congressional seat. LePage, known for his combative style during his two terms as governor from 2011 to 2019, presents a formidable challenge in a district where Republicans have traditionally performed well. Golden specifically mentioned LePage in his announcement, making it clear he intends to make the former governor’s record and rhetoric central issues in the campaign.
“And I am going to do what it takes to make sure no one like Paul LePage blusters his way into Congress,” Golden stated, signaling a potentially contentious race ahead.
Political Landscape Takes Shape for 2026
Golden’s re-election bid comes as Maine’s broader political landscape for 2026 begins to take form. Republican Senator Susan Collins is expected to seek a sixth term, while Democratic Governor Janet Mills has indicated she does not plan to run for another office. The race for Maine’s governorship has already attracted several candidates, including Democratic Secretary of State Shenna Bellows and Republican Bobby Charles. Within Golden’s own party, State Auditor Matt Dunlap is reportedly considering a Democratic primary challenge, potentially complicating Golden’s path to re-election.
Republicans Target Golden’s Seat
The National Republican Congressional Committee has placed Golden’s seat on its target list for the 2026 cycle, viewing the Trump-friendly district as a prime opportunity for a pickup. Golden, a member of the moderate Blue Dog Coalition, has managed to maintain his position in the conservative-leaning district by often breaking with his party on key votes. His narrow victory in 2022 underscores the competitive nature of the district and the challenges he faces in maintaining his seat against a high-profile Republican challenger like LePage.
“We look forward to making out of touch Democrat Jared Golden wish he ran for governor,” said Maureen O’Toole, a spokeswoman for the National Republican Congressional Committee, highlighting the GOP’s eagerness to contest the seat.
The Electoral Balancing Act
Golden’s political survival in Maine’s 2nd District has been notable given the area’s Republican leanings. The district, which encompasses much of rural Maine, voted for Trump in both 2016 and 2020, yet Golden has managed to maintain support through his moderate positioning and focus on local issues. His background as a Marine veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan has resonated with the district’s voters, many of whom prize independence and practicality over strict party loyalty. As the 2026 election approaches, Golden’s ability to balance local concerns with national politics will be tested once again.