Maine’s next governor will walk a tightrope between energy affordability and climate action

MAINE MONITOR • October 2, 2026

All three candidates running for governor agree that energy affordability is a priority. And all acknowledge the reality of climate change. But they disagree on whether these problems can be tackled together. Democrat Hannah Pingree and independent Rick Bennett think energy affordability and climate action can go hand in hand. Pingree said she would continue the work of the Maine Climate Council, which created a plan to meet clean energy and greenhouse gas emissions goals set by the state Legislature. Bennett said he also supports transitioning the state to clean energy. Republican Bobby Charles said that the state government should focus squarely on affordability, and embrace both renewable energy and fossil fuels, including supporting new natural gas pipelines.