Overview
- Golden announced his decision in a Bangor Daily News op-ed, confirming he will not run in 2026 after four terms representing northern Maine.
- He cited threats to his family, concern about rising political violence, and frustration with a record-length government shutdown as key reasons for stepping away.
- He argued he could have won again but said he now dreads the prospect of winning, calling Congress increasingly unproductive and prioritizing time with his family.
- The open seat boosts Republican pickup prospects in a district Trump carried by roughly 10 points in 2024, with the NRCC declaring confidence in flipping it.
- Former GOP governor Paul LePage is already running, state auditor Matt Dunlap is the leading Democratic contender, and national committees are reassessing investments for 2026.