Congressman Jared Golden will not run for reelection in 2026.

In an op-ed in the Bangor Daily News Wednesday, Golden said it was a difficult decision but that it is time for him to step away.

“I have grown tired of the increasing incivility and plain nastiness that are now common from some elements of our American community — behavior that, too often, our political leaders exhibit themselves,” said Golden.

Golden also cited recent incidents of political violence as a factor in his decision to step away, and stated that he has “never loved politics.”

“Last year we saw attempts against Donald Trump’s life, and more recently we witnessed the firebombing of Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s home, the assassination of Democratic lawmakers in Minnesota and the horrific murder of Charlie Kirk,” said Golden.

He also touched on the ongoing federal shutdown.

“This unnecessary, harmful shutdown and the nonstop, hyperbolic accusations and recriminations by both sides reveal just how broken Congress has become,” said Golden.

Golden added that he hopes his exit will make way for a new generation of leaders.

“I have consistently called for a new generation of leaders and I repeat that call today,” said Golden. “My sincere hope is that by creating an open seat, my departure makes space for a competitive primary for both Democrats and Republicans.”

In response to his announcement, National Republican Congressional Committee spokesperson Maureen O'Toole stated that Golden did not have a path for victory and predicted the GOP would flip the seat in 20-26. 

Democratic House leader Hakeem Jeffries said Golden “is a good man, a patriot” and will be missed. He predicted Democrats would hold the seat and win the House majority.

Golden's decision to step down sets up a possible matchup between old political rivals in the state to fill one of the most watched House districts in the country. The leading Republican candidate is former Gov. Paul LePage, who led the state from 2011 to 2019. Former Democratic Secretary of State Matt Dunlap launched a primary challenge against Golden last month and is poised to become the leading Democratic contender.

LePage and Dunlap served at the same time and sparred occasionally over issues such as election integrity and the wording of ballot questions.

LePage said in a statement that the race “has always been about fighting for rural Maine.” Brent Littlefield, a spokesperson for LePage, attributed Golden's departure to weak numbers in recent opinion polls.

“I am running for Congress to make sure that working Maine families have a voice in Washington, D.C. This fight is just beginning,” LePage said.

Dunlap thanked Golden for his service in a statement.

“In the days and months ahead, I intend to vigorously campaign for Congress in Maine’s second congressional district — and I intend to win,” Dunlap said.

Golden was first elected to Congress using the state's ranked choice voting system. He was reelected by wider margins in 2020 and 2022, but had to beat back a tough challenge from Republican Austin Theriault in 2024. Golden edged Theriault after a ranked recount.

Golden represents the 2nd Congressional District, which is largely rural and geographically much larger than the 1st Congressional District, which is based around Portland. Golden's district is also politically mixed, and Trump has won support there in three consecutive presidential elections.

Golden has prioritized bipartisanship and the protection of traditional industries such as lobster fishing during his time in Congress. He also voted against one of the articles of impeachment against Trump in 2019 in a move that bucked party orthodoxy.

Golden said he is proud of what he has achieved during his tenure, citing bringing substance abuse and mental treatment beds to veterans at Togus.

“I am forever grateful for the trust bestowed on me by my fellow Mainers in the 2nd District to be their voice in Washington,” said Golden. “To them I can only say: Thank you.”

With reporting by the Associated Press.