Conservative grassroots organization Common Sense for Maine gathered Republican activists, candidates and supporters Thursday afternoon at Dunegrass Country Club, where founder Domenic Pugliares welcomed the crowd, unveiled a new slate of campaign advertisements, and introduced Republican gubernatorial nominee Bobby Charles, who laid out his vision for Maine ahead of the November election.
Pugliares, the owner of Dunegrass Country Club and founder of Common Sense for Maine, opened the event by thanking attendees and Republican candidates before outlining the organization’s grassroots efforts heading into the final months of the campaign.
He also premiered several television and digital advertisements developed by Common Sense for Maine that are expected to run online and on television during the upcoming election cycle. Pugliares explained the group’s strategy of focusing on issues it believes resonate with Maine voters and said the advertisements would be available to Republican candidates seeking additional campaign support.
Addressing the audience, Pugliares emphasized the importance of voter education and turnout, arguing that thousands of registered Republicans failed to vote in previous election cycles. He encouraged volunteers to focus on identifying and turning out those voters while also reaching independent voters on what he described as broadly supported “80-20” issues.
Charles then delivered a wide-ranging address focused on affordability, property taxes, energy costs, public safety, addiction, government accountability and Republican turnout.
Framing the 2026 election as a pivotal moment for Maine, Charles said conversations with Republican leaders from around the country have reinforced his belief that Republicans have an opportunity not only to win the Blaine House but also majorities in the Maine Legislature.
“I’ve had blessings beyond belief,” Charles told supporters, explaining that his decision to run for governor came from a belief that Maine needs a change in direction after years of Democratic control.
Throughout his remarks, Charles repeatedly returned to what he called “crossover issues” that appeal to independent voters.
He described rising property taxes as a “moral issue,” arguing that increasing tax bills are forcing seniors from their homes while making it difficult for younger Mainers to buy or rent a home.
Charles also criticized Maine’s energy policies, saying lower electricity costs and reducing government subsidies are essential to making the state more affordable for families and businesses.
The opioid crisis also received significant attention during Charles’ remarks.
He sharply criticized the state’s investment in syringe service programs, arguing that Maine should instead expand residential treatment, recovery housing, mental health services and workforce opportunities for those struggling with addiction.
Drawing on his experience as a former federal prosecutor, Charles also pledged an aggressive approach to combating drug trafficking and public corruption.
He argued that concerns over fraud in government resonate with voters across party lines and highlighted alleged misuse of taxpayer funds, saying accountability must remain a priority.
Charles also predicted Republicans are positioned to make gains among independent voters, citing polling that he said shows strong support for issues including property taxes, affordability, energy costs, public safety and government accountability.
Comparing the current political environment to the Republican wave election of 1994, Charles said he believes Maine is approaching a similar political turning point.
“This is the moment,” Charles told supporters. “All the indicators are out there.”
Following his remarks, Charles remained to answer questions from attendees during an extended question-and-answer session.
He later joined Maine Wire TV for a live interview from the deck overlooking Dunegrass Country Club, where he discussed the governor’s race and the issues shaping the campaign with Maine Wire Editor-in-Chief Steve Robinson, host Tom Shattuck, and Graham Pollard.
Thursday’s event reflected Common Sense for Maine’s continued emphasis on grassroots organizing, voter turnout and issue advocacy as Republicans work to build support among independent voters while seeking to reclaim both the governor’s office and control of the Legislature in November.
