LePage wins Maine Republican nod in key US House battleground

June 9 (Reuters) – Former Maine Governor Paul LePage won the Republican nomination to run in the state’s 2nd Congressional District on Tuesday; US media have predicted a November contest in a race that could help decide control of the US House of Representatives.

The district, which covers much of Maine’s forested interior, is considered a key battleground and one of a handful of competitive seats likely to play a decisive role in determining the balance of power in Congress.

LePage, a combative political figure who served two terms as governor, is seeking to return to elected office and is expected to launch a high-profile campaign.

State Sen. Joe Baldacci and progressive Matt Dunlap will face the Democratic nominee emerging from a crowded primary field that includes Jordan ‌Wood and Paige Loud.

The seat will open following centrist Democrat Jared Golden’s decision not to run for re-election. He managed to hold the region despite Republican tendencies in the presidential elections.

As with other Maine races, the final result could take time to be confirmed due to the state’s ranked-choice voting system.

(Edited by Michael Learmonth and Howard Goller)