Jared Golden won’t seek reelection, opening up competitive seat
Rep. Jared golden (D-Maine) announced he will not seek reelection in the competitive Maine 2nd Congressional District, opening the seat to a likely Republican pickup. In an op-ed, Golden cited frustration with political incivility, threats to him and his family, and a desire to step away from politics despite finding purpose in public service. Golden, known as a moderate Blue Dog Democrat who has successfully defended his seat in a district trending red, is currently serving his fourth term. His departure marks the end of eight years of Democratic control in this key swing district. Republicans have long targeted Golden’s seat, and his exit enhances their chances of capturing it in the 2026 midterm elections, which also include a closely watched Senate race in Maine.
Jared Golden won’t seek reelection, opening up competitive seat
Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME) announced he will not seek reelection on Wednesday, giving Republicans a glimmer of hope after Democrats ran up the score on election night on Tuesday.
In an op-ed published by the Bangor Daily News, titled “I won’t seek reelection. Here’s why,” Golden outlined his decision not to run again for one of the most competitive seats in the country, providing a near-certain flip for Republicans without an incumbent running.
“Recently, it became clear to me that now is the right time to step away from elected office,” Golden wrote. “I’ve never loved politics, but I find purpose in meaning and service.”
Golden said he has grown tired of the “incivility and plain nastiness,” citing the recent acts of political violence and the threats he and his family have received.
The National Journal Hotline ranked Golden No. 6 in their “House Power Rankings” for the most competitive seats in the country heading into the 2026 midterm elections.
“Republicans have put Golden on their target list since he first was swept into office in the 2018 blue wave during Trump’s first term,” the outlet concluded. “Since then, he’s carved out a reputation as a committed Blue Dog Democrat, unafraid to buck party leadership, while going on to win again and again as his district gets redder.”
Golden is serving his fourth term in his ultracompetitive district, leaving a path to victory for the GOP after eight years of holding the seat.
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“Serial flip-flopper Jared Golden’s exit from Congress says it all: He’s turned his back on Mainers for years and now his chickens are coming home to roost,” National Republican Congressional Committee spokeswoman Maureen O’Toole said in a statement. “He, nor any other Democrat, has a path to victory in ME-02 and Republicans will flip this seat red in 2026.”
Maine is a key state in several races, as Republicans will have to defend incumbent Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) in one of the most competitive Senate races of the 2026 midterm elections.
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