Primary Elections Are Here!
SANFORD, ME –The time has arrived to make your voice heard. This election is a critical step for our campaign in Maine House District 143. I am running to build a future that reflects our shared values, and that work begins with your vote.
Support the Campaign:
Our momentum is growing, but we rely on the grassroots support of neighbors like you to reach every voter in South Sanford. If you have not yet done so, please consider making a contribution to our campaign. I do not use the words our and we lightly – I am running for each of you, not for my own personal gain.
As I mentioned at your door, I am financing my campaign through the Maine Clean Elections Act (MCEA) financing program where I can only accept one-time $5 donations from registered voters in our district. Once verified, your $5 is matched and turns into just over $100 to help us win in November. If you have already donated, thank you! If you have not donated yet, please consider donating today at https://maine.gov/cleanelections - every qualifying donation gets us one step closer to winning this November. Donate to Help Us Win District 143
Host a Kitchen Table Discussion!
The second-best way you can help us win District 143 is to host a house party. Knocking on doors is my primary way to get in front of neighbors, but nothing beats the endorsement of a neighbor like you.
How it works:
Reach out to set up a day and time with me (John@JohnForMaine.com).
Invite a few friends, neighbors, or family members who live in District 143.
Host the kitchen table discussion is not a big ask and is typically something as simple as coffee and a space big enough for us all to sit around and chat.
The goal is simple: have a regular conversation about what is going on in our community and how I can support you and our neighbors in Augusta. There will be no prepared speeches, just real honest conversations. Having just completed one of these kitchen table discussions I personally left energized and excited for what we can do together! Can I count on you?
Important Voting Information:
Maine now operates under a semi-closed primary system. This means you can participate in our primary if:
You are a Democrat,
You are an Unenrolled (Independent) voter - you may choose to cast a Democratic ballot without being required to officially join the party,
If you are registered in another party, no problem! November is just around the corner, and I hope I can count on your vote!
How to Vote Early:
You do not need a reason to vote early. You can cast your ballot in person at the Sanford City Hall (919 Main Street) during their regular business hours from now until Thursday, June 4, 2026. This is often the most convenient way to ensure your vote is counted before the busy Election Day on June 9.
How to Absentee Vote:
You never know what will happen on primary day. Life happens. Why risk missing out on this crucial first step toward winning District 143. Request your absentee ballot today! Once you have filled out your ballot (hopefully putting your mark next to my name!) you will have to pay for postage, or you can return it to City Hall in the big white ballot box in the City Hall parking lot(919 Main Street).
Vote on Primary Election Day:
If you are old school and like the excitement of showing up the polls, That works too! Sanford has a consolidated voting location at the Sanford High School (learn more on the here) so nothing has changed since the last election cycle. Doors are open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Tuesday June 9th. Should you need a ride to the polls, let me know and I will make sure you have a ride.
While fieldwork for an environmental research traineeship will have me in the field on primary day, I am fully committed to our community and this race. As many of you know, my goal is to be transparent and available to each and every one of you. Should you have any questions feel free to call me at 207-608-9249 or send me an email at John@JohnForMaine.com.
Need a Ride?
If you need a ride for any voting option above, let me know! Either a volunteer or I can make sure we get you to the polls or city hall. It is not a bother at all. Your voice in the future of our state is important, besides it is what a neighbor does!
Not Registered? Register Today!
Registration is simple, easy, and quick. You can do so online or in-person at the City Clerk’s office in City Hall.
Thank you for your continued support and for being an active participant in our democracy.
-John Henkelman, Candidate Maine House District 143
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