Today, Rick Bennett, a Republican legislator for 14 years, launched a campaign for governor. Bennett has a long career as a partisan Republican, serving as the Chair of the Republican Party under Governor Paul LePage, a delegate at five different Republican national conventions, and a member of the Republican National Committee. Maine Democratic Party Executive Director, Devon Murphy-Anderson, released the following statement on Republican Rick Bennett’s launch:

“Make no mistake: Rick Bennett is no independent, he’s a lifelong Republican. Despite his campaign rhetoric, voters cannot ignore Rick Bennett’s record of opposing Medicaid expansion, supporting the defunding of Planned Parenthood, voting to restrict reproductive rights, and backing policies that would undermine public schools.

“Rick Bennett’s candidacy as a so-called independent does not offer a way forward for Maine; based on his record, he would put the wealthiest and corporate special interests ahead of Maine families. 

“At this pivotal moment in history, Maine needs a leader who will fight for our state – not a career Republican politician who was Paul LePage’s top cheerleader.”