Maine Democrats held onto the Senate Tuesday by at least one vote and picked up seats to strengthen their majority in the House.
While some races were too close to call Wedneday morning, House leaders from both parties agreed Democrats had strengthened their control. House Majority Leader Glenn Cummings predicted Democrats were now in the low to mid-80 range, while Republicans controlled 60 to 63 seats. When the Legislature adjourned this year, the tally was 74 Democrats to 73 Republicans, with one Green and three independents.
Cummings said the Democratic strategy was to raise more money and focus on targeted races. He also said candidates knocking on doors talked about a simple “prosperity plan” that encourages investment in roads and bridges, tax and spending reform and making college more affordable.
“Partisan ideology is the way Republicans do business in Washington. We don’t want it to come to Maine. We have a more moderate message,” he said, adding that as the heir apparent to the House Speaker’s job, he was committed to working with Republicans.
In the Senate, Democrats appear to have lost one seat, making the tally 18-17. Incumbent Democratic Sen. Arthur Mayo of Sagadahoc County was behind his Republican challenger by less than a percentage point.
Senate President Beth Edmonds said she was happy with the outcome.
“I was thrilled with the strong performance of our Democratic Senate candidates,” said Edmonds. “We were able to retain at least 18 seats, with two seats too close to call right now. Their success is a testament to the outstanding qualifications of our candidates, their hard work, and the tireless efforts of numerous volunteers on their behalf.”
The second seat that appeared too close to call is that of Oxford County Republican Sen. David Hastings. Hastings was a fraction of a percentage ahead of his Democratic challenger.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
