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Independent Candidate Rick Bennett Runs for Maine Governor
Former Republican and Democratic state senators endorse Bennett's problem-solving approach over partisan politics.
Published on Feb. 8, 2026
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Mary Small, a former Republican state senator, and Marge Kilkelly, a former Democratic state senator, are endorsing independent candidate Rick Bennett for Maine governor. They cite Bennett's commitment to civility, pragmatic problem-solving, and putting the interests of Maine people over partisan politics as key reasons for their support.
Why it matters
Maine faces significant challenges, from affordable housing to healthcare reform, that require a governor willing to work across the aisle and find solutions rather than engage in partisan gridlock. Bennett's independent candidacy represents a break from the traditional two-party system that has often failed to deliver results for Maine residents.
The details
Small and Kilkelly, who served together in the Maine legislature despite being in opposite parties, believe Bennett's experience in both the private and public sectors, as well as his integrity and commitment to civility, make him the best candidate to lead Maine forward. They argue that Maine people are tired of political spectacle and want a governor who will listen to them and take action to improve their lives.
- Rick Bennett announced his independent candidacy for Maine governor in January 2026.
- The Maine gubernatorial election is scheduled for November 2026.
The players
Rick Bennett
An independent candidate running for Maine governor, Bennett has experience in both the private and public sectors and a reputation for civility, pragmatic problem-solving, and putting the interests of Maine people over partisan politics.
Mary Small
A former Republican state senator from Sagadahoc County who is endorsing Bennett's independent candidacy.
Marge Kilkelly
A former Democratic state senator from Lincoln County who is endorsing Bennett's independent candidacy.
What they’re saying
“Civility is not a code word for avoiding hard choices. The next governor will confront enormous challenges, and rhetoric alone won't solve them.”
— Mary Small, Former Republican state senator (pressherald.com)
“We need a governor who answers only to the people of Maine — not party bosses or special interest groups. We need a governor willing and able to rise above division and deliver solutions.”
— Marge Kilkelly, Former Democratic state senator (pressherald.com)
What’s next
The Maine gubernatorial election is scheduled for November 2026, and Bennett's independent campaign will continue to focus on his problem-solving approach and ability to work across the aisle to address the state's challenges.
The takeaway
Bennett's independent candidacy represents a break from the partisan gridlock that has often prevented progress in Maine, offering voters an alternative focused on civility, pragmatism, and delivering results for the people of Maine.
