State Auditor Matt Dunlap narrowly won the Democratic primary in Maine’s 2nd congressional district after three rounds of ranked-choice voting, the Secretary of State’s Office announced early Friday. Dunlap defeated state Sen. Joe Baldacci, who led in the first two rounds but lost by fewer than 3,000 votes in the final tally. Jordan Wood, another candidate, was eliminated in the second round. Dunlap will now face former Gov. Paul LePage in the general election to replace retiring Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME).
Dunlap’s victory came despite opposition from national Democrats, including the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), which had endorsed Baldacci as a more electable candidate in the conservative-leaning district. The DCCC had warned Dunlap that his progressive platform could jeopardize Democratic chances against LePage, a popular Republican. Some Democratic lawmakers, including Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-MA), criticized Dunlap’s campaign, arguing that Golden was the only Democrat capable of winning the district.
Dunlap, however, framed his win as a mandate for change. 'Today’s results tell us that people want real change and a better future,' he said in a statement. He pledged to defeat LePage and advance policies like Medicare for All and affordable childcare. The race is expected to draw national attention as both parties vie for control of the U.S. House.
Baldacci and Wood have five days to request a recount under state law. If no recount is filed, Dunlap will advance to the general election against LePage, who ran unopposed in the Republican primary.