PORTLAND, Maine (AP) – The Democratic primary against Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins was shaken Wednesday by one candidate’s decision to withdraw and enter another race with similarly high stakes.
In a move that could have implications for the closely divided U.S. House and Senate, Jordan Wood, who once served as chief of staff to former Rep. Katie Porter of California, has dropped out of the Senate race for the seat representing Maine’s 2nd Congressional District, held by incumbent Democratic Rep. Jared Golden. recently He announced that he would not seek another term.
This leaves Gov. Janet Mills, the party’s mainstay, and Graham Platner, an oyster farmer who gained attention for his progressive views and provocative statements. Online postingas the top Democratic challenger to Collins.
Wood’s announcement raises the possibility of a Democratic Congressional primary against former Secretary of State Matt Dunlap in the critical 2nd District. The leading Republican candidate for the House seat is former Governor Paul LePage.
“After many conversations with my family and the voters of Maine’s 2nd Congressional District, I have decided to step up and become a warrior for the district where I was born and raised,” Wood said in a statement Wednesday.
Maine’s upcoming 2nd District and Senate races are both highly competitive and could help shape the state’s balance of power. meeting. Collins is New England’s only Republican senator, and defeating her has been a longtime goal of Democrats. On the other hand, the Republicans prioritized regain The 2nd district is popular with President Donald Trump.
dunlop announced Golden’s bid for District 2 came weeks before he announced his resignation. Dunlap said in a statement Wednesday that Wood’s entry into the race “doesn’t change our campaign or our commitment. We will continue to fight for the people of Maine.”
Mr. Lepage served as governor from 2011 to 2019. bid For Congress a few months ago. LePage spokesman Brent Littlefield said in a statement that Wood is too liberal for the 2nd District.
“The Miners will choose Paul Lepage, a job creator who will grow the economy and push back on inflation,” Littlefield said.
Two other former Democratic candidates for the Senate seat, brewery owner Dan Kleban and former Air Force civilian contractor Daila Smith-Rodriguez, recently dropped out and endorsed Mills. A handful of other Democratic candidates remain, but Mills and Platner are the only ones actively campaigning.
