By Sam Barron | Wednesday, 05 November 2025 05:40 PM EST
Rep. Jared Golden, a moderate Democrat representing a battleground district in Maine, announced Wednesday he will not seek re-election in 2026. The decision comes amid growing concerns over the deteriorating state of American politics and personal safety.
Golden reflected on his choice in an editorial for the Bangor Daily News, citing the “incivility and nastiness” that has taken root in national discourse. He specifically referenced the assassination of Charlie Kirk and lawmakers in Minnesota as a catalyst for his decision. “These events have made me reconsider the experiences of my own family,” Golden said, recalling a Thanksgiving incident last year when his family faced threats against their home.
The congressman also highlighted the challenges he faced in his district, including a primary battle with liberal challenger Matthew Dunlap and a general election race against former Republican Gov. Paul LePage, who won the area by over nine points in the 2020 presidential election. “I don’t fear losing,” Golden stated, “but I now dread the prospect of winning.” He emphasized that his priority lies in being present for his family rather than continuing his congressional career.
Golden criticized both Dunlap and LePage, calling them “a far cry from standard bearers of the generations that will inherit the legacy of today’s Congress,” while encouraging others to enter the race. He also expressed concerns about the direction of his own party, accusing Democrats of being overtaken by extremists and adopting obstructionist tactics similar to those of Republicans.
The Cook Political Report currently rates Golden’s seat as a toss-up. Sam Barron has nearly two decades of experience covering politics, crime, and business.
