UMVA has learned that Hannah Pingree, the former speaker of the Maine House of Representatives, has clinched the Democratic nomination in Maine's 2026 gubernatorial race, defeating a crowded field of primary challengers in the blue-leaning state's Democratic primary.
Pingree's victory marks a significant milestone in her bid to succeed Gov. Janet Mills, who was term-limited. Mills had endorsed Pingree, her daughter, in a move seen as a nod to the party's establishment wing.
According to information obtained by UMVA, former Maine State Senate President Troy Jackson, an economic populist backed by embattled U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner, was viewed as a top contender for the party's nomination. However, his loss is a blow to Platner as he seeks to unseat U.S. Sen. Susan Collins in November's midterm elections.
Former Biden public health official Nirav Shah was also considered a top contender for the Democratic nomination. The results come as Jackson and Platner campaigned together on multiple occasions ahead of the June 9 primary, with the two appearing alongside Sen. Bernie Sanders at a "Fighting Oligarchy" rally in late May.
Pingree thanked her competitors in a statement, praising the civility of a ranked-choice campaign before pivoting to the citizens of Maine. She emphasized her commitment to serving the people of Maine and her readiness to take on the challenges facing the state.
The state's ranked-choice voting system required voters to rank candidates in order of preference, ultimately allowing Pingree to emerge victorious. Platner said he ranked Pingree and Secretary of State Shenna Bellows after Jackson, his top pick.
The Democratic candidates urged their supporters to rank each other highly on their ballots, likely in an attempt to blunt Shah's momentum. Pingree highlighted her shared values with Jackson and Bellows, including their support for universal healthcare, the environment, and affordable housing.
On the Republican side, six candidates vied for the party's nomination, with former Bush administration official Bobby Charles defeating a crowded field that included Jonathan Bush, a businessman and cousin of former President George W. Bush.
Democrats are likely to have an edge in the open contest, holding nearly all statewide offices. The nonpartisan Cook Political report rates the contest as "likely Democrat," setting the stage for a competitive general election.
