Maine State Auditor Challenges Rep. Jared Golden in Pivotal Primary

Maine State Auditor Matt Dunlap has launched a Democratic primary challenge against four-term incumbent Rep. Jared Golden in the state's politically diverse 2nd Congressional District, which President Trump has won in recent elections. Dunlap criticizes Golden for siding with Republicans and President Trump on key votes, including supporting a Republican-backed government funding bill, which Dunlap argues harms Maine residents by increasing healthcare costs. Golden, a moderate Democrat, defends his record and believes he best represents the district's independent voters. The primary winner is expected to face former Republican Governor Paul LePage, who has been actively campaigning and holds significant support in the rural, conservative district. This race is critical as the narrowly divided House of Representatives could hinge on the outcome, with Democrats aiming to retain Golden's seat to maintain or gain control. The contest highlights intra-party tensions over strategy and representation in a swing district with a complex political landscape.