Speaker Mike Johnson Endorses Paul LePage for Maine Congress

House Speaker Mike Johnson traveled to Auburn, Maine, on Monday, August 18, 2026, to endorse former Governor Paul LePage for Maine's 2nd Congressional District. During a press conference at Auburn Concrete and Auburn Aggregates, Johnson described LePage as one of the most qualified and competent candidates to run for the House of Representatives since 1789, asserting he is ready to serve from day one.

LePage is seeking the seat vacated by Representative Jared Golden and faces Democratic opponent Matt Dunlap, the State Auditor. During the event, LePage pledged to create better jobs for Mainers, lower taxes, and operate an efficient government. He also stated he would not vote for cuts to Social Security or Medicaid, while Johnson and LePage together criticized the administration of Governor Janet Mills for failing to apply tax provisions from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

The Dunlap campaign responded by criticizing LePage's gubernatorial record, specifically his previous vetoes of Medicaid expansion and cuts to social programs. Dunlap's team alleged that LePage is struggling in the polls and would ultimately support the tariffs and Medicaid cuts favored by Johnson. National election forecasters currently view the 2nd District as a likely Republican flip, a result that would be critical for the GOP's effort to maintain its thin House majority.