N※N

Scott Harriman Wins Maine House District 11 Special Election

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/2 .. ns-maine-house-district-11-special-election.html
  Published in House and Home on Tuesday, February 24th 2026 at 22:15 GMT by Bangor Daily News
      Locales: Maine, UNITED STATES

By Elias Vance, Staff Writer

WELLS, Maine - February 25th, 2026 - Scott Harriman, a Republican candidate, has emerged victorious in yesterday's special election for Maine House District 11, filling the vacancy left by the passing of long-serving Representative James Bennett. The results, finalized late Tuesday evening, show Harriman securing 54% of the vote, defeating Democratic challenger Madalene Murray who received 46%. While the margin of victory appears comfortable, a notably low voter turnout of approximately 28% raises questions about broader engagement within the district.

The election, held to represent the towns of Wells, Kennebunk, and portions of Biddeford, has become more than just a replacement of a representative; it's a barometer of the current political climate in a traditionally conservative corner of Maine. Bennett, a fixture in state politics for over two decades, was widely respected across the aisle, and his death late last year created a void that both candidates sought to fill. Harriman's win ensures the Republican party maintains its existing majority in the Maine House of Representatives, a key factor heading into the next legislative session.

"I'm deeply grateful for the support of the community," Harriman stated in a press release issued shortly after the results were confirmed. "I am committed to serving the people of District 11 with integrity and dedication, carrying on the legacy of James Bennett while bringing fresh perspectives to the challenges we face." This pledge to both continuity and innovation suggests Harriman intends to bridge potential divides and appeal to a broad spectrum of constituents.

Murray, while conceding the election, expressed gratitude to her supporters and emphasized the importance of continued civic participation. "While the outcome wasn't what we hoped for, I'm proud of the campaign we ran and the conversations we had," she said. Her emphasis on dialogue highlights the continuing need for robust political discourse, even in the face of defeat.

Low Turnout Signals Potential Apathy or Specific Concerns

Analysts are carefully examining the lower-than-average turnout for a special election. While the late winter weather undoubtedly played a role - icy roads and accumulating snow can deter voters - it's unlikely to be the sole factor. The unique circumstances of a special election often contribute to decreased engagement, as voters may perceive the stakes as lower than those of a general election. However, some political observers suggest the low turnout could also reflect a growing disconnect between voters and the political process, particularly in rural areas. The combination of a less publicized election coupled with potential voter fatigue after recent election cycles may also contribute to the numbers.

District 11: A Shifting Demographic?

District 11 has historically leaned conservative, and Harriman's victory largely aligns with this trend. However, Maine, like many states, is experiencing demographic shifts. The influx of new residents, particularly retirees and remote workers, is gradually altering the political landscape in traditionally rural areas. While these newcomers haven't yet fully reshaped the electorate in District 11, their increasing presence could signal a potential long-term shift towards more moderate or even liberal views. This is something both parties will be watching closely in future elections.

Impact on Upcoming Legislative Session

Harriman's swearing-in, expected next week, will likely have immediate implications for the upcoming legislative session. The Republican majority will be strengthened, potentially influencing the passage of key bills related to local infrastructure, property taxes, and environmental regulations - all issues of significant concern to residents of Wells, Kennebunk, and Biddeford. The focus on maintaining Bennett's legacy while introducing 'fresh perspectives' could indicate Harriman may seek bipartisan support on certain issues, despite the strengthened Republican hold.

The special election also serves as a precursor to the more significant state and national elections scheduled for later in 2026. Political strategists will be analyzing the results, voter turnout data, and campaign strategies to gain insights into the prevailing sentiments and potential trends that could shape the outcomes of those larger contests. The challenge for both parties will be to mobilize voters and address the concerns of a diverse and evolving electorate. The coming months will reveal whether the low turnout in District 11 was an anomaly or a sign of deeper disengagement among Maine voters.