Funded in part by the Apples and Oranges Foundation and Arnold Ventures.
Produced in collaboration with the Investigative Reporting Workshop.
Maine’s primary election is on June 9, and it’s not just Democrats and Republicans who can vote. The state’s semi-open primary law means that unenrolled voters can also choose to participate in one of the party primaries without joining that party.
With absentee voting underway, voters are beginning to make decisions about their primary ballot. The Maine Monitor is here to help you navigate the process and get the information you need to make an educated vote. Here are the big things on our radar:
We saw a shakeup in the Democratic U.S. Senate primary. Progressive insurgent Graham Platner appears to be firmly in control of the race after Gov. Janet Mills suspended her campaign, making him the likely challenger to Republican Sen. Susan Collins in the general election.
The governor’s race is packed in both parties. Maine’s next governor will emerge from a crowded field, with five Democrats and seven Republicans angling for their party’s nomination in June. There are also several independent candidates in the mix.
Four Democrats are vying for a chance to take on Paul LePage in CD 2. With former Gov. Paul LePage running unopposed for the Republican nomination, four Democrats are competing for their party’s slot in an effort to hold on to the seat being vacated by Rep. Jared Golden.
Can Republicans find a competitive candidate in CD 1? Incumbent Democratic Rep. Chellie Pingree has repeatedly cruised to re-election. Republicans will be choosing between two primary candidates to challenge her in November.
Our 2026 voter guide breaks down these big races, dives into who’s funding them, details who’s running for State House and county government seats, answers common questions about voting in Maine and more. You can start by watching our interviews with the primary candidates in the contested races we highlight above. As always, let us know if there’s something else you’d like to see us dig into.
Key Dates
Absentee ballots for the June 9 primary become available. You can request one by calling or visiting your town office or by visiting this website.
Last day to register online or by mail to vote in the primary election (deadline is 5 p.m.). After this date, you must visit the BMV (until June 2) or register in person at your polling place on election day.
Last day to request an absentee ballot for the 2026 primary election.
2026 Primary Election
State House Race Search
Search by name or state house district to see who is running and explore campaign finance data for each race.
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