Vice President JD Vance criticized Maine state auditor Matt Dunlap on August 24, 2026, during an event in Brewer, Maine, accusing him of failing to protect taxpayer dollars. Vance claimed that Dunlap's inability to pass certification exams previously led to widespread fraud in the state. Dunlap had to resign from his position in 2021 after failing two of the three required exams but was reappointed in November 2022 after passing them. Vance also endorsed Republican former Governor Paul LePage, highlighting his commitment to the state despite past controversies. A recent poll indicated a close race between Dunlap and LePage, with Dunlap at 49% and LePage at 48%. The Cook Political Report has categorized their race as a likely Republican pick-up opportunity following the announcement of incumbent Rep. Jared Golden's departure from Congress.
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JD Vance Criticizes State Auditor Matt Dunlap Over Fraud Allegations in Maine
Vice President JD Vance criticized Maine state auditor Matt Dunlap for failing to protect taxpayer dollars and for his past inability to pass certification exams. Vance endorsed Republican Paul LePage during the event, where a recent poll showed a close race between LePage and Dunlap. The Cook Political Report has identified the race as a likely Republican pick-up opportunity.
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Vance says Maine became ‘fraud capital’ under state auditor Matt Dunlap who failed audit exam
JD Vance Criticizes State Auditor Matt Dunlap Over Fraud Allegations in Maine