Maine Republican Governor nominee?
$148.8K
JUN 10, 2026
Primary Election
Party selects its nominee.
Overview
Current roleState Senator
Political ideologyCentrist Independent
Age63 years old (May 24, 1963)
GenderMale
LocationMaine
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BackgroundBusinessman
EducationHarvard University (BA)
Notable personal detailsRichard A. Bennett is a Maine businessman and politician who serves in the Maine Senate and previously served as President of the Maine Senate (2001–2002). He represented Oxford County in the Maine Legislature across multiple terms and chaired the Maine Republican Party (2013–2017). In 2025 he left the Republican Party and launched a 2026 campaign for Governor of Maine as an independent.
SourcesShowHide
Positions
Economy & Taxes
Supports a ‘tax fairness’ approach that would eliminate unfair tax exemptions, provide targeted tax relief for those most in need, protect older Mainers from being taxed out of their homes, and use revenue for community-strengthening priorities. Has supported specific tax measures in the legislature (including voting for a 2023 payroll-funded paid family leave program) and sponsored tax-incentive proposals such as a pilot program to encourage a four-day work week for businesses.
Healthcare
Supports making coverage more affordable and increasing access by focusing on prevention, primary care, mental health and addiction treatment; prioritizes lowering prescription drug costs and protecting women’s reproductive health; proposes revamping the Fund for Healthy Maine to support health programs.
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Immigration & Border
Supports limiting local law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration enforcement and has expressed concern about federal immigration enforcement tactics; has engaged with initiatives related to immigrant integration. Positions emphasize restricting enforcement cooperation rather than expanding enforcement measures.
Abortion & Reproductive Rights
Supports restrictions on abortion funding and voted in favor of prohibiting certain late-term procedures; has opposed legislative proposals to expand post-viability abortion access. Positions indicate support for some access with limits and restrictions.
Public Safety & Guns
The candidate describes himself as a gun owner and long-time member of the NRA and Sportsmen’s Alliance, states strong support for the Second Amendment and Maine’s sporting/hunting traditions, and emphasizes advocacy for law‑abiding gun owners. He has earned high ratings/endorsements from the NRA and Sportsmen’s Alliance of Maine.
News
Bangor state Sen. Joe Baldacci joins crowded Democratic primary for Maine's 2nd Congressional District, aiming to challenge Republican favorite Paul LePage.
Endorsements
Endorsers of Rick Bennett for Maine Republican Governor nominee?
New updates coming soon
We're monitoring and will update when new data impacts the race.
- Polls
- Fundraising