Angus King III, a Maine-based energy executive and the son of U.S. Senator Angus King Jr., has officially announced his candidacy for governor. He will run as a Democrat in the 2026 election. His campaign aims to replace outgoing Governor Janet Mills, who is leaving office due to term limits.
King, 54, brings experience from the private sector, especially in renewable energy and housing. He said now is the right time to enter politics and bring new solutions to help Maine residents. His announcement was made Tuesday during an interview with NBC News.
A Family Legacy in Maine Politics
King hopes to follow in the footsteps of his father, Senator Angus King Jr., who served as Maine’s governor from 1995 to 2003. The elder King later won a seat in the U.S. Senate in 2012 and is currently serving his third term. Unlike his father, who identifies as an independent, Angus King III has chosen to run as a Democrat.
When asked why he aligned with a political party, King responded simply, saying it was an easy choice. He believes that running as a Democrat best reflects his values and goals for the state.
Replacing Governor Janet Mills
Current Governor Janet Mills, a Democrat, has been in the national spotlight recently for her clashes with former President Donald Trump’s administration. One major issue was the federal government’s decision to freeze funding for a school nutrition program in response to Maine’s policies supporting transgender athletes.
The freeze was lifted last week after the state dropped its lawsuit. King commented on the issue, saying he supports Mills’ stance.
King also criticized the Trump administration’s actions, saying that politics should not interfere with children’s access to food or Social Security. He believes that helping people should always come before partisan politics.
Focus on Energy and Housing Solutions
Angus King III has spent years in the private sector working on sustainable energy and affordable housing. One project he often mentions involves converting cow manure into renewable natural gas. This project brought together a gas utility and environmental advocates.
King says this example shows how different groups can work together for a shared goal. He believes that his experience in bringing people together can benefit Maine, especially in dealing with complex issues like energy and housing.
He added that his background as a business leader, not a career politician, is a strength. He sees value in having an outsider’s perspective in the race. King believes his experience in creating jobs and solving tough problems makes him well-suited for the role.
A Competitive Democratic Primary
King is the second high-profile Democrat to enter the race. He will compete against Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, who has a long history in civil rights and public service. Bellows previously led the ACLU of Maine and The Holocaust and Human Rights Center of Maine. She was elected secretary of state in 2021 after serving in the state Senate.
The Democratic primary is expected to be competitive. Both candidates have strong backgrounds and appeal to different parts of the party base.
The Republican Field Is Still Forming
On the Republican side, Bobby Charles is a likely contender. He has held several federal government roles, including at the State Department and in the U.S. House of Representatives. More candidates are expected to join the race.
Maine has not elected governors from the same party in back-to-back terms for over 50 years, making this election highly unpredictable.
A Modern Campaign Message
King’s campaign is focused on unity, job creation, and practical solutions. His announcement video and interviews stress that he is not running just to win an election. He wants to make a real difference.
King’s goal is to address the struggles that many Mainers are facing today. He wants to build a state where everyone can thrive.
He says he’s prepared to work with anyone—including Republicans and federal officials—if it helps Mainers. He is committed to doing everything he can to support the people of Maine.
Background and Personal Life
Angus King III grew up in Maine, where his father served as governor. He attended college out of state and then returned to work in the energy sector. His work has centered on clean energy projects and affordable housing development.
While his father has spent much of his career in politics, King III has focused on business. However, he believes his background will allow him to bring fresh ideas to the state government.
