MAINE, USA — After becoming a staple on people’s TVs and in their hearts, Dr. Nirav Shah is hoping to be on Mainers’ ballots.

Shah, 48, kicked off his campaign in Portland on Monday morning.

“I stand before you today to announce that I am running to be the next Governor of Maine,” Shah said, followed by a rush of applause.

Shah is joining six others vying for the democratic primary in June 2026, most notably Hannah Pingree, Shenna Bellows, Troy Jackson, and Angus King III.

Never having held elected office before, this primary will be Shah’s first test at the ballot box. In a crowded race with many familiar faces, name recognition is not going to be enough for Shah to clinch a spot on the ballot in the November 2026 general election.

Instead, Shah is building on the trust and notoriety

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