This episode of the Independent Voter Podcast dives into the chaos surrounding the Maine Senate race after Graham Platner's withdrawal amid allegations and vetting failures.
There's an old superstition that things always come in threes. This summer, it seems as if politicians needing to be replaced in office or on the ballot fits the bill.
With independent voters now a majority, former Republican rivals Allan Fung and Ken Block are betting Rhode Island’s political future belongs outside the two-party system.
As Democrats scramble to replace Graham Platner, the former logger and Maine Senate president offers a rare mix of progressive politics, labor credibility, and proven appeal in Republican-leaning areas.
Prediction markets are already pricing in a post-Platner race—and the name that is closing the gap with Collins before any announcement has been made may help the party avoid a full Joe Biden situation.
Buried in Title 21-A, section 374-A of Maine's election statutes is a provision built for exactly this kind of situation: a primary winner who becomes, in the party's estimation, more liability than asset before the general election arrives.
With a nationwide slate of independent candidates, $2 million ready to be deployed, and campaign staff with real experience, Bob Chew’s in a better position than many to force a conversation he believes is necessary.
Independent Voter Podcast
Matt Shinners
Shawn Griffiths
Nathan Smolensky
Cara Brown McCormick
Independent Voter Project