AUGUSTA, Maine — Vote totals are still being tallied, but it appears Democrats have retained a significant majority of seats for the new Maine Legislature.
A spokesman for Senate Republicans says the GOP appears to have slightly lost ground, with a final balance of 22 Democrats to 13 Republicans. That’s one seat less than the GOP has now.
Each party lost an incumbent Senator. In Lincoln County, current Senate Republican leader Dana Dow of Waldoboro appears to have lost to Democratic Rep. Chloe Maxmin of Waldoboro.
In Aroostook County, Democratic Sen. Mike Carpenter of Houlton appears to have been defeated by Republican Rep. Trey Stewart of Presque Isle.
The final results of House races are still being sorted out, but it appears Democrats will continue to have a sizeable, though somewhat smaller majority.
“I’d like to offer all of the newly elected and returning members of the Maine House of Representatives my sincerest congratulations," House Speaker Sara Gideon said in a statement. "I also want to thank every candidate for their hard work, their activism and for sharing with us their visions for the future of our state. Running for office is a tremendous undertaking and I applaud all who put their names on the ballot."
“Maine House Democrats worked incredibly hard to run positive and dynamic grassroots campaigns to connect with Maine voters," Gideon added. "I have full confidence that these extraordinary women and men will focus on an agenda that improves the lives of Maine families and strengthens our economy. Serving as Speaker of the House has been an incredible honor and an awesome responsibility and I thank every member for their service.”
“Maine took a major step in the right direction last night,” said House Republican Leader Kathleen Dillingham. "Voters sent a strong message that they expect House Republicans to be included in decisions that affect their lives. Despite hundreds of millions in outside money pouring into Maine, our message was heard by voters."
"Early reporting from towns and cities all across Maine has resulted in an 11 seat gain for Maine House Republicans," Dillingham added. "Republican challengers defeated 7 incumbents, and no incumbent Republican Representative was defeated.”
The 130th Maine Legislature is scheduled to be sworn in December 2. Current Democratic Senate President Troy Jackson is expected to retain that position. There is likely to be a race among multiple Democrats to be the next Speaker of the House.
