Vice President JD Vance on Monday accused Maine state auditor Matt Dunlap of contributing to fraud in the state, while campaigning with former Republican Governor Paul LePage in Brewer, Maine.
Vance’s remarks came during a joint appearance with LePage, who is running for Maine’s 2nd Congressional District in the midterms. The district, which favored former President Donald Trump by 9 points in 2024, is considered competitive as Democratic Representative Jared Golden chose not to seek re-election.
Vance alleged that Dunlap, a Democratic candidate for Congress, failed to meet certification requirements for the state auditor role. He questioned how Maine became a perceived center of fraud, stating, “How did Maine become one of the main capitals of defrauding the American taxpayer? … One of the answers is somehow you guys hired an auditor who is not actually an auditor and failed the auditor exam.”
LePage, who served as governor from 2011 to 2019, is campaigning on Trump’s economic agenda and his record as an “independent-minded” leader. Vance described LePage as “fighting hard for his people every single day” and urged voters to send him to Congress.
Dunlap’s campaign dismissed LePage’s candidacy, with campaign manager Harry Burke stating that voters “understand the disaster Paul LePage would be in Congress.” Burke cited LePage’s past support for Medicaid cuts, tariffs, and foreign policy stances as concerns for the district.
The race is widely viewed as one of the most competitive in the midterms, with analysts noting Trump’s declining national approval rating could influence the outcome. Dunlap, currently Maine’s state auditor, previously served as secretary of state. LePage brings high name recognition from his prior tenure, while Dunlap emphasizes his experience in state government.
Vance’s remarks and the LePage-Dunlap contest highlight broader debates over election integrity, economic policy, and political leadership in Maine’s 2nd District.