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Home > Guide to Political Activity > Contribution Limits

Contribution Limits

Limits on Contributions to Candidates
  PRIMARY GENERAL TOTAL
Gubernatorial – Party Candidates $1,500 $1,500 $3,000
Gubernatorial – Unenrolled Candidates N/A $1,500 $1,500
       
Legislative - Party Candidates** $375 $375 $750
Legislative - Unenrolled Candidates** N/A $375 $375
 
County - Party Candidates $750 $750 $1,500
County - Unenrolled Candidates N/A $750 $750
 
Municipal Candidates N/A $750 $750


** The contribution limit for candidates for the Maine State Legislature was increased by $25, from $350 to $375 per election, effective January 17, 2013. No other contribution limits were changed. (21-A M.R.S. § 1015(1) & (2))

A contributor may give up to the contribution limit in each election.

The limits apply to all types of contributors, including individuals, organizations, businesses, unions, political action committees, and party committees.

Even if a candidate is unopposed in a primary or general election, a contribution can be made to that candidate for that election.

Contributions made to a particular candidate that are earmarked or directed through an intermediary such as a PAC or a party committee are considered contributions to the candidate, and are subject to the contribution limits.

The contribution limits apply to municipal candidates in certain towns and cities.

The maximum amount an individual may contribute to all candidates in a calendar year is $25,000.

Note: An unenrolled candidate is a candidate who is not enrolled in one of the three officially recognized political parties in Maine (Democratic, Green - Independent, and Republican Parties). They are often referred to as "independent candidates."