ME-01: Rep. Pingree facing Democratic primary with entrance of South Berwick legislator

The entrance of another Democrat in the race for Maine’s 1st Congressional District has teed up a primary for incumbent U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree, who is seeking her 10th term.

State Rep. Tiffany Roberts of South Berwick announced last week her plan to run for Maine’s southern district in the November 2026 election. She is the only Democrat currently challenging Pingree, who is seeking her 10th term in the office. The two will face off in a June 9 primary election to determine who will be on the November ballot.

Roberts’ entrance into the race came ahead of a shake-up in the Republican primary, with Sanford Police Chief Eric Small announcing his decision to conclude his run. Instead, he plans on running for a seat in the Maine House of Representatives because he feels he could be more effective in state office. In his announcement, Small backed Republican Ron Russell in his bid to unseat Pingree.

Russell won the Republican primary for the 2024 election, but ultimately lost to Pingree by 57% to 35%. Federal election records also list Republicans Joshua Duprey and Anthony Piantidosi as candidates.



https://mainemorningstar.com/2025/11/12/rep-pingree-facing-democratic-primary-with-entrance-of-south-berwick-legislator-in-cd1-race/