Former Rep. Bruce Poliquin, who lost a close race to Democratic challenger Jared Golden in Maine's 2nd Congressional District last year, announced on Sunday that he would not run for Congress in 2020 due to "family priorities."
Poliquin wrote on Facebook that "FAMILY ALWAYS COMES FIRST. When my brother passed some years ago, I became my parents’ only surviving child. They devoted their lives to raising Jim and me. Now, it’s my turn and responsibility to help care for them."
He added that "I’ll continue to speak up and battle for what’s right for Maine and America. There are lots of ways I’m already helping Republicans win next November. Then, we’ll see what the future holds for 2022."
Golden's district, in the rural, northern area of Maine, is currently rated by the Cook Political Report as a "Democratic Toss Up," according to The Hill.
Poliquin's decision not to challenge Golden means that former state Sen. Eric Brakey is the only Republican currently in the race, according to WGME.
After Poliquin posted his decision not to run in 2020, Brakey thanked him for his years of service to Maine and to America, writing on Twitter that “I’m sure this isn’t the last we’ve seen of your leadership. By putting family first, you are an example to us all.”
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