AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — The Assistant GOP Leader in Maine's State House says he is suspending his campaign for the 2nd Congressional District seat.

Rep. Alex Willette of Mapleton announced his decision in an email to supporters on Wednesday.

The 24-year-old Willette says he believes that his energy will be better spent "helping Republicans win Maine's 2nd, working to keep the Governor's mansion and retaking the majority in the legislature." He says the race is a chance for Republicans to send a fiscal conservative to Washington to stop out-of-control spending.

Willette announced earlier this summer that he would run to fill the seat currently held by Democratic Congressman Mike Michaud, who is leaving to run for Maine governor. Other Republicans in the race are former Navy officer Blaine Richardson and former state Treasurer Bruce Poliquin.

 

More From