Maine Referendum Campaigns See influx of Out-of-state Funding as November Vote Nears
AUGUSTA, Maine – Maine’s upcoming November referendum votes are being heavily influenced by outside financial contributions, with progressive groups significantly outpacing opponents in fundraising for a voter ID initiative and a “red flag” law proposal, according to recent campaign finance reports.
The Yes on 1 campaign, advocating for a voter ID law, has reported $174,000 in cash on hand and received $30,000 in in-kind contributions from Washington, D.C.-based Restoring Integrity and Trust in Elections (RITE) for legal services. Campaign manager Alex Titcomb stated, “We are not surprised by the recent finance reports. This was expected and continues a pattern on the left, where large amounts of out-of-state money flood into Maine. … In this case, their intent is to stop the will of the people who want to strengthen our elections by passing voter ID.”
Meanwhile, supporters of Question 2, a measure concerning “red flag” laws, are in a stronger financial position. Safe Schools Safe Communities has raised $407,000, including $300,000 in the last quarter, and has spent $322,000. The group currently has $175,000 in cash on hand. Campaign manager James Stretch said in a statement, “We’re entering the final month of the campaign with strong support from Mainers throughout the state. We know that our opponents have the backing of the national gun lobby and their deep pockets, so our campaign to pass this life-saving law depends on our donors.”
Critically important donations to Safe Schools Safe Communities include $20,000 from author Stephen King, over $30,000 from Susan Crimmins of Portland, at least $25,000 from Carol wishcamper of Freeport, and $33,000 transferred from Gideon’s 2020 campaign. The Alliance for Gun Responsibility Fund, based in Seattle, contributed $65,000. The group also secured a $190,000 loan from the Maine Gun Safety Coalition and carries $20,000 in debt, largely for media advertising.
Opponents of Question 2 - Protect ME -No Red Flag, run by the Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine, and Keep ME Safe, run by the gun Owners of Maine – have collectively raised onyl $56,000 and spent $30,000.
Despite the funding disparity, opposition to Question 2 has gained high-profile support. Governor Janet Mills, a Democrat, recently announced her opposition to the referendum, arguing that Maine’s existing “yellow flag” law provides sufficient safeguards and due process.
laura Whitcomb,president of the Gun owners of Maine,stated,”Keep Maine Safe will continue to provide factual information to the Maine voter on why red Flag laws are hazardous for Maine.”
