Portland, Maine — Emerge Maine, the state’s premier organization that recruits and trains Democratic women to run for office, announced it has 41 women on the ballot this November in races from school board to State Senate and more. This follows a successful primary season for the organization which celebrated a 95% win rate in June. The Emerge alums who go on to win their races in November will serve their communities in office, providing new experiences, voices and representation to their constituents.
Emerge alums on the ballot share unique backgrounds and identities that will bring much needed perspectives to elected offices in Maine. 13 are members of the New American Majority–Black, Brown and Indigenous women and women of color, as well as LGBTQ+, young, and unmarried women–10 are first time candidates. Emerge candidates include teachers, business owners, farmers, veterans, doctors and organizers and reflect the broad spectrum of Mainers across the state. Emerge alums across Maine are at the frontlines of repowering political structures and bringing parity to office.
“After a groundbreaking primary season, Emerge alums are ready to hit the campaign trail in Maine and continue their success on the ballot in November,” said Ashley McCurry, Executive Director of Emerge Maine. “Democrats believe everyone deserves adequate food, housing, health care, education, and reproductive freedom. 40 Emerge-trained women are stepping up to advocate for these basic necessities for all Mainers. Good luck to all of our alums on the ballot this November and we look forward to seeing you out on the campaign trail and in holding office this fall.”
More information about the alums on the ballot:
Since the organization launched in 2006, the program trained 375 women to run for office. 140 of those alums have gone on to run for political office or been appointed to local boards or commissions, and of those who have gone on to run for an elected position, 87% have won. Notable political leaders like Governor Janet Mills have volunteered as a trainer and advisory board member for Emerge Maine. Senator Mattie Daughtry is an alum of the program as is Secretary of State Shenna Bellows. Assistant Majority Leader Rachel Talbot Ross is also an alum of the program as well as many members of the House caucus.