How Often Has Maine Voted Correctly in the Presidential Election?

Have you ever wondered how many times our Pine Tree State’s choice aligned with the eventual winner? Well, now we know!

Get our free mobile app

Voting is one of the most important responsibilities we have as citizens. It’s a privilege that not everyone around the world gets to experience, and it allows us to have a say in shaping our country’s future. Here in Maine, voting works a little differently than in most other states because of the way our electoral votes are distributed.

Credit: Canva / Getty Stock

Maine is one of the few states that can split its electoral votes between candidates.

While Maine has four electoral votes in total, two are based on the state's districts, with each district getting one vote, and the remaining two go to the statewide winner. This unique system allows Maine’s 1st and 2nd districts to vote differently if they choose. The state adopted this method in 1972.

Credit: Canva / Getty Stock

In recent years, Maine has often seen its two congressional districts vote differently.

Our state first split its electoral votes in 2016 when Donald Trump won the 2nd District, marking the first Republican win in Maine since George H. W. Bush in 1988. Trump repeated his 2nd District win in 2020, continuing the trend of the state's divided vote.

Credit: Canva / Getty Stock

Historically, Maine was known as a 'bellwether state' in presidential elections. But what exactly is a 'bellwether state?'

'Vacationland' was once referred to as a 'bellwether state' because its election results were seen as a predictor for presidential races. The popular saying, 'As Maine goes, so goes the nation,' reflected this belief. Maine held its state elections in September, and the outcome often provided a strong indication of which party would win the national election between 1820 and 1932.

Credit: Canva / Getty Stock

So, with that in mind, from 1820 to 2020, how many times has Maine's choice aligned with the eventual winner?

Out of the 51 presidential elections that Maine has participated in, the state voted for the winning candidate 33 times, which is about 64.7%. For example, in 2008, Maine supported Barack Obama, who went on to become president. However, in 2004, while John Kerry won Maine’s 1st District, 2nd District, and the state at large, he did not win the presidency. This shows that Maine's vote isn't always a predictor of the final outcome.

Credit: Canva / Getty Stock

What are your thoughts on these results? Are they surprising? We'd love to hear from you! Feel free to join the conversation by messaging us on the app.

A list of Presidential Visits to Maine While in Office

Maine has had its fair share of visits from current Presidents over the years. Here is a closer look at many of them. Information comes from News Center Maine and the Maine Encyclopedia.

These Are the 25 Most Patriotic Brands in Maine

Chain Store Age recently ranked the most patriotic brands in America, emphasizing the significance of brand patriotism in today's political climate. The list, based on a survey by Brand Keys involving over 7,000 consumers, showcases 25 brands that resonate with the heart of American pride, reflecting a deeper connection beyond just displaying the American flag.

Gallery Credit: Jordan Verge

Which Frozen Pizza Brands Should Maine Shoppers Avoid?

Not all frozen pizzas are the same, and some are definitely better than others. A report by 24/7 Wall St. highlights six frozen pizza brands to avoid, based on factors like price, taste, quality, and health. If you're curious about which ones to skip, keep reading for the details. Mainers looking for a quick dinner might want to steer clear of these frozen pizzas!