Maine Democrats Elect New Leadership Ahead of 2026 Elections

AUGUSTA, Maine — Maine Democrats elected new leadership Sunday, selecting attorney Charlie Dingman as chairman and Imke Schlesser-Jandreau as vice chair. The decision comes as the party prepares for critical elections in 2026, including an open gubernatorial seat and a U.S. Senate race.

The Maine Democratic State Committee chose Dingman and Schlesser-Jandreau to replace outgoing chairwoman Bev Uhlenhake and vice-chair Julian Rogers, who announced their resignations earlier this month. The leadership change occurs amid heightened political tension in the state, with Republicans gaining ground in recent elections.

Dingman, of Leeds, emphasized the challenges facing Maine Democrats in a statement. “This is a challenging moment for all of us in the party of Maine’s working people, as our new national regime serves the interests of the very few who are wealthy enough not to do their own work and pursues its agenda without a care for those most vulnerable to their cruelty,” he said.

Schlesser-Jandreau, of Bangor, highlighted the party’s opportunity to reconnect with voters. “We have an incredible opportunity to rebrand the party, lean into our values, and bring people together,” she said. “By listening to Mainers who have felt unheard for too long, we will build strong grassroots campaigns that unite all corners of the state.”

Democrats maintained control of the Maine House and Senate in the 2024 elections, as well as the closely contested 2nd Congressional District. However, Republicans nearly flipped the Maine House, coming within 100 votes of securing a majority.

The leadership transition follows similar changes within the Maine Republican Party, which earlier this month elected Jim Deyermond as chairman and Scott Rocknak as vice chair. Both parties are gearing up for a contentious 2026 election cycle, with Republican Sen. Susan Collins expected to seek a sixth term in the U.S. Senate.