A group of Maine Republicans criticized former President Donald Trump during a press conference on Monday, expressing their support for Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign in the state and labeling Trump a threat to democracy.
Three notable Republican figures from Maine, who have held various roles such as state legislators and mayors, announced their endorsement of Harris, the Democratic nominee, at a virtual event aimed at appealing to moderate voters nationally.
The leaders articulated several reasons for conservative Mainers to steer clear of another Trump presidency, arguing that he no longer embodies Republican values and that his interests do not align with those of the American populace.
Following Trump’s initial election and presidency, the three expressed feelings of neglect from the Maine Republican Party, which they claimed continued to back his reelection campaign.
Peter Mills, a former Republican state senator and gubernatorial candidate, remarked, “It seems that party leadership maintains their positions out of fear rather than loyalty or sound judgment.” He added, “However, I believe that most committed citizens will ultimately vote for Kamala Harris when they enter the voting booth.”
The Maine Republican Party did not provide any comments on the issue.
Tony Payne, former executive director of the Maine GOP, stated his intention to vote for Harris, as he no longer resonates with the Republican values he once championed within the current party’s support for Trump. “Let’s be honest: Trump’s ambition for the presidency is driven by a desire to evade criminal charges and to embark on a vindictive campaign,” Payne claimed. “In contrast, Vice President Harris will strive for a sustainable future, emphasizing home ownership, retirement savings, and reproductive rights for all women.”
Payne continued, “While President Harris would advocate for the public, Donald Trump would prioritize tax reductions for the wealthiest Americans.”
Roger Katz, a former assistant Senate minority leader and Augusta’s mayor, urged voters to heed the warnings from Trump’s ex-staffers, many of whom have openly criticized him. He referenced comments from former Chief of Staff John Kelly and former Defense Secretary Mark Esper, who have characterized Trump as a security threat.
“This is a clear choice,” Katz asserted. “I hope that voters, regardless of their party affiliation, recognize this and choose to protect our democracy in November.”
Support for Harris among Republicans is not isolated to Maine. Numerous GOP figures nationwide have also publicly endorsed Harris, including former members of Congress from various states, as well as former Trump officials like ex-White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham and Olivia Troye, a former national security adviser to Mike Pence.
“I may not agree with Vice President Kamala Harris on every issue, but I am confident she will fiercely defend our freedoms, safeguard our democracy, and represent our nation with integrity,” Grisham said in a statement. She encouraged fellow Trump administration officials to stand with Harris to uphold democratic values.
Several former governors have joined the coalition, including Jim Edgar of Illinois, Bill Weld of Massachusetts, and former Georgia Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan.
Over the weekend, during a campaign rally, Trump criticized prominent Georgia Republicans, including Governor Brian Kemp and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, both of whom resisted his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results but have not backed Harris.
Correction: This article was updated from an earlier version that incorrectly stated the event took place on Wednesday.