Bobby Charles holds big polling lead in Maine Republican gubernatorial primary
Bobby Charles leads the Maine Republican gubernatorial primary with 36% support in a new poll, ahead of Jonathan Bush at 20% and Garrett Mason at 13%, as the race intensifies 20 days before the ranked-choice primary. Critics question Charles’ spending cuts and ethics, while his opponents have spent millions on ads, contrasting with his lower TV ad spending and focus on AI-driven digital campaigns.
Lawyer and former federal official Bobby Charles has solidified his frontrunner position in Maine’s Republican gubernatorial primary, securing 36% support in a new poll released by Pan Atlantic Research. The survey, conducted less than three weeks before the June 18 ranked-choice primary, places entrepreneur Jonathan Bush second at 20% and former Maine Senate Majority Leader Garrett Mason third at 13%, with 22% of voters still undecided. The race will determine which Republican faces one of five Democrats vying to replace outgoing Governor Janet Mills. Charles’ lead comes amid growing criticism from opponents and party lawmakers, who argue his promises to slash Augusta’s budget are unrealistic and his conservative stance may hinder a general election victory in a Democratic-leaning state. Allegations of ethics violations and debate absences have further fueled scrutiny, while Bush has targeted Charles’ lobbying career and federal record, citing a Bangor Daily News report on State Department audits during his tenure. Despite the backlash, Charles maintains a strong polling advantage, bolstered by a consistent social media presence and statewide campaigning since announcing his candidacy over a year ago. His campaign has spent less than $183,000 on TV ads between May and late June, instead prioritizing AI-driven digital advertising. In contrast, Mason’s backers have invested $3.8 million in ads, while Bush’s campaign and supporting PACs have allocated nearly $2.9 million. Other candidates, including former fitness executive Ben Midgley (2% support), businessman Robert Wessels, and real estate executive David Jones, trail significantly. Midgley, backed by former Governor Paul LePage’s network, has loaned his campaign $750,000 but remains far behind Charles in the latest survey of 287 likely voters. The poll highlights a tight race with 22% of voters still undecided, as Republicans aim to unify behind a single candidate ahead of the general election.
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