Representative Jared Golden (D-Maine) announced on Tuesday that he will seek reelection in Maine’s Second Congressional District, opting out of a bid for a statewide office.
“I’ve analyzed various options to best serve the people of Maine, and I’ve decided that running for reelection is the most effective way to bring balance back to Washington by helping Democrats regain the House,” Golden stated.
“With the election still 18 months away, I remain focused on my duties to my constituents and my family, but I also realize that the primary route involves addressing the GOP majority,” he added.
“I’m committed to doing what it takes to prevent candidates like Paul LePage from making it to Congress,” he noted, referencing the former Republican governor of Maine, who is also seeking that seat.
Golden had previously been seen as a possible candidate for governor or Senate, both of which were contested in the state in 2026.
Maine’s Second District is recognized as one of the most competitive in the nation. Golden secured his position in 2024 by a narrow margin of less than one point, while President Trump won the district by a ten-point margin.
Golden is known as one of the more moderate Democrats, having notably diverged from party lines when he supported House Republicans on the GOP Expenditure Bill to prevent government shutdowns.
