Rick Bennett’s campaign for governor of Maine brings an intriguing twist to the state’s political landscape. Although he is running as an independent, his campaign garners substantial backing from Republican financiers and strategists, including those allied with former Governor Paul LePage.
Maine’s political history is noted for electing independents, with figures such as Angus King, who served as governor from 1995 to 2003 and is currently one of only two independent U.S. Senators. Eliot Cutler also made significant strides as an independent in the 2010 governor’s race, finishing as a runner-up.
Despite this precedent, Bennett’s candidacy as an independent is unexpected. Having served as vice chair of the Maine Republican Party from 2013 to 2017, he has a long-standing association with the GOP, holding and campaigning for various offices under its banner. It was only last year that he severed ties with the party as he embarked on his gubernatorial campaign. In his campaign launch video, Bennett stated, “We need leaders who will work with anyone—Republican, Democrat, or independent—to ease the financial pressure on families. That’s why I’m running as an independent.”
Financial records reveal that the super PAC backing Bennett, Maine Wins Together, is largely financed by affluent Republicans. Notably, Gray and Sandra Bahre, who inherited wealth from an auto-racing enterprise, contributed $50,000 this year. They have also been notable supporters of LePage, donating to his congressional campaign and associated political action committees.
Additionally, liquor tycoon Paul Coulombe has contributed $50,000 to Bennett’s super PAC. Coulombe, known for his hefty $160,000 donation to the Maine Republican Party in 2014, also supported LePage’s unsuccessful 2022 gubernatorial campaign.
LePage, who once self-identified as “Donald Trump before Donald Trump,” governed Maine from 2011 to 2019 and was notorious for his extremist perspectives and controversial comments. Despite a voter referendum, he notably resisted expanding Medicaid in Maine.
Bennett’s historical connection with LePage is significant; he supported LePage’s 2010 campaign and served on his transition team. LePage even recommended Bennett for a position in the State Department during the Trump administration, as indicated in a letter.
Moreover, Bennett’s campaign is advised by Election Hive, a Republican consulting firm based in Utah, which has also collaborated with Sen. Mike Lee, recognized as the most conservative senator of 2024.
In the upcoming general election, Bennett will contest against Democrat Hannah Pingree and Republican Bobby Charles. However, a recent poll by the Siena Research Institute shows Bennett lagging behind both competitors, with only 8% voter support.
