State Auditor Matt Dunlap won the Democratic primary in Maine's 2nd District on June 19, 2026. He will face Republican Paul LePage in the race to replace retiring Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME). Dunlap's victory raises concerns among national Democrats about the competitiveness of the district, which has historically leaned Republican.
Dunlap's campaign faced opposition from the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), which believed that only Golden could hold the seat. The DCCC attempted to dissuade Dunlap from running, citing concerns about his ability to win in the conservative-leaning district. Some Democratic lawmakers, including Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-MA), expressed similar sentiments, stating that Dunlap's candidacy could hinder the party's chances in the general election.
The DCCC later endorsed state Sen. Joe Baldacci as a more viable candidate. Despite this, Dunlap's progressive platform, which includes advocating for 'Medicare for all,' has drawn attention. The House Majority PAC, an outside group supporting national Democrats, indicated plans to maintain ad reservations in the district despite Dunlap's nomination.
Polling from May indicated that LePage was leading Dunlap by 10 points. Democrats need to flip three seats to regain control of the House, and losing this seat could complicate their efforts.