Angus King III, son of Maine Senator Angus King Jr., has announced his candidacy for governor of Maine in the 2026 election. The 54-year-old energy executive and founder of Peaks Renewables is running as a Democrat to succeed term-limited Governor Janet Mills. King emphasizes his background in building affordable housing and renewable energy projects, aiming to create a better Maine through innovation, economic growth, and making it easier for families to afford basic needs. Unlike his father, who is an independent, King is running under the Democratic banner, citing his identity as a Democrat and his pragmatic, moderate approach that aligns with Maine’s political tradition of bipartisanship. His campaign is supported by his father, who praised him as one of the “top two governors named Angus ever.” The race is expected to be competitive, with Secretary of State Shenna Bellows and others also vying for the Democratic nomination. King’s entry into the race comes amid Maine’s political landscape, where Democrats are seeking a strong candidate to challenge Republican Senator Susan Collins. King’s focus on problem-solving, collaboration, and his outsider perspective reflect Maine’s political culture of moderation and pragmatism.