Paul LePage Announces Congressional Run Amid Controversial Legacy
Paul LePage, known for his contentious political career as Maine’s governor, is now aspiring to represent the state’s 2nd Congressional District. LePage, who held the gubernatorial office from 2011 to 2019, gained notoriety for opposing Medicaid expansion and minimum wage increases, as well as for his provocative comments.
Following an unsuccessful bid for a third gubernatorial term in 2022, LePage has been residing in Florida. He recently declared his congressional candidacy, emphasizing his commitment to protecting Social Security and Medicare. “We need people who have and will always protect Social Security and Medicare,” LePage stated on May 5. “That’s why I’m running for Congress. I do not need a job, I’m running to protect our Maine jobs.”
Despite his recent statements, LePage’s track record as governor shows a history of opposing safety net programs. He vetoed Medicaid expansion six times, even after a 2017 voter-approved referendum. LePage famously declared he would rather go to jail than implement the expansion.
Maine’s current governor, Janet Mills, prioritized Medicaid expansion upon taking office in 2019. This policy has provided health coverage to over 100,000 Mainers, including 22% of residents in the 2nd District.
LePage’s opposition to Medicaid was criticized by Rep. Chellie Pingree (ME-01), who in 2018 stated, “The LePage Administration’s continued attempts to veto Maine voters is cruel and costly.”
As LePage launches his campaign, House Republicans are contemplating cuts to Medicaid, potentially funding tax breaks for affluent individuals and corporations. LePage has also criticized MaineCare, the state’s Medicaid program, for having excessive enrollees and lenient qualification criteria.
LePage resisted efforts to increase Maine’s minimum wage, vetoing a bill in 2013 intended to raise it from $7.50 to $9 per hour. He later proposed changes to child labor laws, suggesting a $5.25 pay rate for young workers. In 2020, LePage opposed a state referendum to elevate the minimum wage to $12 per hour, a change that would benefit roughly 20% of workers in the 2nd District.
LePage’s tenure was also marked by controversial remarks, including a 2013 incident where he used graphic language to criticize state Sen. Troy Jackson. In 2016, he was accused of making racially insensitive comments regarding out-of-state drug dealers.
Author Stephen King, a part-time resident of Maine’s 2nd District, has expressed strong disapproval of LePage, writing in 2016, “One must admit LePage has elevated assholery to a level far past the extraordinary and into a rarified sphere that might be termed divine.”
The 2nd District is currently represented by Democratic Rep. Jared Golden, who may pursue a gubernatorial run. Golden secured reelection in 2024 despite the district favoring Donald Trump in the presidential election.
