FREEPORT, Maine — Emily Cain has support from the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Emily’s List, and more, but rival Joe Baldacci says he has what it takes to win.
The two Democrats vying for the nomination to face Republican US Representative Bruce Poliquin next year in the race for Maine’s 2d Congressional District seat will meet for the first time Sunday at the party’s annual Muskie Lobster Bake. Both candidates will address the crowd before Governor Terry McAuliffe of Virginia gives the keynote address.
Cain lost to Poliquin in 2014, but regrouped for another match, and she already has gotten national interest.
Advertisement
‘‘Her strong local and state support combined with her record of accomplishments for Maine people as a state legislator and strong fund-raising numbers are why Emily has caught the eye of national groups focused on this race,’’ says Sara Stevens, a former state representative from Bangor.
Cain has attended fund-raisers held by US House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi of California and the DCCC. Emily’s List, which supports Democratic women, also is helping.
Cain said she’s encouraged by the early endorsements and support. ‘‘We need a voice in Congress who will bring everyone to the table and stand up for what matters most to Maine’s working families,’’ she said when she announced her candidacy in March.
But Baldacci says out-of-state endorsements don’t matter.
‘‘I don’t think the politicians in Washington are going to control the election in Maine. Mainers get to vote for who they want to represent them, not D.C.,’’ he said.
Baldacci says he has a message that will resonate with voters in the sprawling district, which covers the vast majority of Maine, except for the southeastern coast, and provide a path to victory against Poliquin.
‘‘I have a message of fighting for people and for bread-and-butter economic issues. It’s a message that can win,’’ the Bangor lawyer says.
Advertisement