A new frontrunner for governor? Ben Midgley wins Maine Republican straw poll
The Maine Republican Party did note that there were some issues with their distribution of the survey and not all candidates received it
AUGUSTA, Maine (WMTW) - The Maine Republican Party released the results of its 2026 Governor’s Survey straw poll on Saturday, a month after launching the survey.
Nearly 700 people completed the survey, with Ben Midgley coming out on top with 31.9% of the vote. He was followed by Bobby Charles with 29.5%. Charles has topped virtually every previous poll in the race.
With 13.2%, Jonathan Bush was the only other candidate in the field of seven to get at least 10%.
Midgely said his campaign has been gaining momentum as the primary on June 9 gets closer.
“I am honored to earn the support of Maine Republicans,” said Midgley. “This win sends a clear message that Mainers are ready for change. They want a governor who understands how to grow an economy, reduces everyday costs, manage a budget, and deliver real results.”
In releasing the results of the straw poll, the Maine Republican Party did note some issues. They said they learned from several campaigns that some of their senior members, and even some candidates, did not receive the online survey when it was distributed and were not able to take the poll. according to our media partners WMTW.
The party stressed that the results of the straw poll are not scientific.
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