AUGUSTA — A former George W. Bush administration official is running for governor in 2026.

A native of Wayne, Republican Bobby Charles served as an assistant Secretary of State where he led global counter-narcotics operations, according to his campaign website. After the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, Charles volunteered for active duty and served as a naval intelligence officer. 

Charles did not respond to requests for an interview sent via email and through social media.

According to paperwork filed with the Maine Ethics Commission this week, he plans to finance his own campaign. 

Charles is the first Republican to announce a campaign for governor in 2026, a race that is likely to draw several competitors for the open seat. Gov. Janet Mills, a Democrat, is serving her second term and is prevented by term limits from running again.

Last month, Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, a Democrat, launched her campaign for governor and in February, former Maine Senate President Troy Jackson, also a Democrat, said he is exploring a run. 

On X, Charles has drawn a contrast with Mills, saying he stands with the Trump administration in its opposition to allowing transgender girls to compete on girls’ sports teams.

He also highlighted his experience fighting drug cartels. 

“I’ve taken down cartels before — with a badge and a mission,” he wrote. “As Governor, I’ll back our troopers, fund the front lines, and unleash a full-force crackdown.”

His campaign slogan is “Cut crime. Cut taxes. No nonsense.” 

Other candidates have expressed interest in running for governor in recent days, including Owen McCarthy of Gorham, a Republican, who said he is launching an exploratory committee. And earlier this week, independent John Glowa of China launched a campaign website.

Several other candidates are expected to enter the race in the coming months.