2018 Battleground Election Preview: Maine

Maine is one of the 10 states that is most likely to see a change in party control of one or both of its legislative chambers in the 2018 midterm elections. Control of state government is currently divided. Republicans hold the governorship and a slim majority in the 35-seat senate, while Democrats hold the house of representatives 74-70.

Maine state senators serve two-year terms, so all 35 seats are up for election this year. Republicans currently hold a 1-seat majority in the chamber, 18-17. As part of their efforts to flip the chamber, Democrats are focusing some of their efforts on Senate District 11, currently held by term-limited Republican Michael Thibodeau. In 2016, Thibodeau won reelection by fewer than 900 votes.

All 151 seats in the state house are also up for election. Democrats hold a narrow majority in that chamber, 74-70, with 6 Independents and 1 Green Independent filling the remaining seats.

Leading the state races this year is the campaign for governor. Current Governor Paul LePage (R) is term-limited and therefore prevented from seeking a third term. The Democratic nominee for the Blaine House is state Attorney General Janet Mills, who has held that position since 2013. The Republican nominee is Shawn Moody, the founder of auto body repair chain Moody’s Collision Centers.

Also in the race are Independents Teresea Hayes, the state treasurer, and Alan Caron, a small-business owner.