Hannah
M. Pingree

Republican state Rep. Katrina Smith criticized Pingree over literacy, child welfare and disability services. Pingree's campaign responded that her role in the administration did not cover those programs.

Leaders from four Wabanaki communities endorsed Pingree for governor. She pledged to sign legislation recognizing full tribal sovereignty within her first 100 days if elected. The Passamaquoddy leader at Sipayik did not endorse in the race.

A Bangor Daily News report outlined Pingree's health-care proposals, including a state-negotiated public insurance option that would not replace Medicaid or private insurance, and improved rural access.

The second televised debate covered health-care costs, the state budget, housing affordability, electricity costs and immigration enforcement.

A poll conducted September 30–October 5 showed Pingree continuing to lead the field with 49% support among likely voters.

Maine's early in-person voting period opened on October 5, with Pingree described as the Democratic nominee holding a significant lead in polls.

Post-debate reporting detailed Pingree's proposal to double the homestead exemption, potentially requiring a constitutional amendment to tax second homes owned by nonresidents at a higher rate.

A Press Herald report cited cumulative fundraising totals of more than $4.3 million for Pingree, compared with $1.8 million for Charles and nearly $924,000 for Bennett.

Hosted by the Maine Chamber of Commerce and moderated by News Center Maine, the debate covered taxes, housing, substance use, energy and health care. Pingree criticized Trump's tariffs, the war in Iran, and federal health-care legislation.

An AARP poll of 982 likely voters conducted September 20–22 put Pingree at 52% and Charles at 39%, a double-digit lead.

Bobby Charles alleged a potential conflict involving a state grant to the Island Institute and short films co-produced by Pingree's husband. Maine Public noted Charles offered no proof the grant funded the film. Pingree called the attack 'completely made up.'

The Portland Press Herald reported that Pingree returned a $300 campaign contribution from a lawyer who had previously represented Jeffrey Epstein.

A poll of 309 likely voters conducted September 15–17 found Pingree leading Charles by 12 points, with Bennett at 8% and a margin of error of ±2.9 percentage points.

Maine Public reported Pingree raised more than $1.2 million from July 15 to September 15, compared with about $509,000 for Charles and $146,000 for Bennett. Cash on hand was nearly $1.2 million for Pingree.

U.S. Sen. Angus King endorsed Pingree at a campaign event in Brunswick, saying he had told her years earlier she would have his vote if she ran for governor.