Representative Jared Golden of Maine, who has represented the state’s 2nd congressional district since 2019, announced he will not seek re-election in 2026. Golden, a Democrat, won the district despite it supporting Donald Trump in both 2020 and 2024.
Golden cited rising political incivility, threats to his family, and deep frustration with partisanship as reasons for his decision. He noted that after more than a decade in elected office he can no longer “slog through” the current atmosphere of constant conflict.
His retirement opens a competitive seat in a swing district that Democrats have held narrowly and that analysts view as a key pickup opportunity for Republicans. With Golden stepping aside, both parties are already lining up potential candidates to vie for the seat in the next cycle.