Bush Packs Auburn Stops as Campaign Momentum Builds With Tax-Cutting Message

AUBURN, Maine — Republican gubernatorial candidate Jonathan Bush spent a busy Saturday on the campaign trail in Auburn, drawing supporters to back-to-back stops that underscored what his campaign says is growing grassroots momentum.

Bush began the morning with a breakfast stop at Rolly’s Diner, where supporters gathered for pancakes and conversation before heading to a packed campaign event at JT Reid’s Gun Shop.

JT Reid owner John Reid hosted a luncheon for Bush and spoke to attendees about the Republican candidate’s campaign. Reid also invited Democratic gubernatorial candidates to visit the store, meet voters, and take questions directly from the public.

Maine State Sen. Bruce Bickford (R) and State Rep. Quintin Chapman (R) were also in attendance, joining supporters and local voters at the Auburn stop.

At both locations, Bush delivered a message centered on cutting taxes, shrinking government, and shredding policies he argued do not pass the common-sense test. During his remarks, Bush also drew laughs from the crowd when he joked that Maine has policies so questionable that, if someone mentioned them in another state, “a bartender would cut you off.”

Bush’s campaign has pointed to growing momentum, including strong outside fundraising compared to his Republican rivals, as evidence that his campaign is gaining strength as the race intensifies.

Saturday’s events highlighted Bush’s continued focus on retail-style campaigning—meeting voters face-to-face, answering questions directly, and emphasizing fiscal issues he says are top-of-mind for Maine families.

With the campaign season accelerating, candidates across the state are ramping up appearances ahead of Maine’s primary election, scheduled for Tuesday, June 9.