Democratic Rep. Michael H. Michaud's Thursday announcement that he is exploring a run for governor in Maine could spark crowded primaries for his competitive 2nd District. Michaud has won that district with comfortable margins for six terms, but his seat could be competitive if he launches a gubernatorial bid. President Barack Obama won it with 53 percent last year. "This obviously becomes a nationally targeted race if Michaud runs for governor," said Erik Potholm, a Republican consultant who has worked extensively in Maine politics. "For Republicans, it's a tremendous opportunity to pick up a new seat, because the ... rural areas [located in the district] do really well for Republicans." Local and national Republican operatives rattled off several potential GOP candidates who could run in the 2nd District. (more…)
