Early voting data show Maine Democrats outpacing Republicans in upcoming primary

Early voting data for Maine's June 9 primary shows Democrats outpacing Republicans, with nearly 35,000 ballots already cast. Democrats have returned almost three times as many ballots, accounting for 72% of the total, suggesting higher voter enthusiasm. The primary features a crowded gubernatorial race with five Democrats and seven Republicans, plus Democratic contests for U.S. Senate and a House seat.

Maine primary early voting turnout

• ▪Nearly 35,000 Mainers have already voted in the upcoming primary election.
• ▪The last day to request an absentee ballot and for early in-person absentee voting is Thursday, June 4, 2026.
• ▪The primary election will be held on June 9, 2026.

Democratic-Republican voter enthusiasm gap

• ▪The early voting data provides a glimpse at voter enthusiasm between the Democratic and Republican parties.
• ▪An analysis of state absentee voting data shows 72% of returned ballots were for the Democratic primary.
• ▪Democrats have returned almost three times as many early voting ballots as Republicans.

Semi-open primary system implementation

• ▪Maine's new semi-open primary system allows unenrolled voters to participate in one of the two-party primary elections.
• ▪Among unenrolled voters, Democrats have received a share of ballots similar to their overall share of 72%.

June 9 gubernatorial primary

• ▪Democrats also have primary elections for the U.S. Senate and the 2nd Congressional District in the U.S. House.
• ▪The June 9 gubernatorial primary includes five Democratic and seven Republican candidates.

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