Former NASCAR driver Austin Theriault has announced his bid for the U.S. Congress. The 29-year-old Republican is shifting gears from the racetrack to the political arena, aiming to represent Maine’s 2nd Congressional District.
Theriault, a Fort Kent native, made his announcement on Monday, signaling his entry into the Republican primary. His goal? To challenge Democratic U.S. Rep. Jared Golden in what is anticipated to be one of the most fiercely contested House races in 2024.
This race is not just a local affair; it has national implications and is being closely watched by political pundits across the country.
Today I announced that I’m running for Congress in Maine’s 2nd Congressional District.
The response has been outstanding and I really appreciate the support.
To join the team, head to https://t.co/sWccdpPwhW! #mepolitics pic.twitter.com/TBNib16FyM
— Austin Theriault (@AustinTheriault) September 25, 2023
The former NASCAR driver is not just relying on his fame to win votes. He has pledged to tackle pressing issues such as inflation, illegal border crossings, and the decline of small towns. In his words, he will “come in with fire” to confront these challenges.
Theriault believes that ordinary, hardworking people are being suppressed by out-of-touch elites who fail to understand the struggles of making a living in Maine.
Theriault’s transition from sports to politics is not unprecedented. He follows in the footsteps of Republican Governor Phil Scott of Vermont, another race car driver turned politician.
However, Theriault’s racing career was more successful, reaching NASCAR’s top level before an injury at Talladega Speedway in Alabama in 2019 forced him to retire. Despite this setback, he continues to mentor and consult with drivers, demonstrating his commitment to the sport.
I’m an Aroostook County native, a small businessman, a state rep, & a championship-winning driver.
I’m running for Congress to fight & WIN for struggling Mainers under attack from out-of-touch elites.
We need your help. Join us at https://t.co/sWccdpPwhW. #mepolitics pic.twitter.com/icJxlf8u29
— Austin Theriault (@AustinTheriault) September 25, 2023
Theriault’s political journey began when he became a freshman state lawmaker from Fort Kent. Now, he joins mortgage broker Robert Cross and first-term lawmaker Michael Soboleski in the primary contest.
Savannah Viar of the National Republican Congressional Committee has touted Theriault as a strong candidate to challenge Golden, indicating his potential to make significant waves in the upcoming elections.
The race for Maine’s 2nd Congressional District is expected to be highly competitive. Golden has won the past three elections, defeating former Republican Rep Bruce Poliquin twice.
However, Theriault’s entry into the race could change the dynamics. His conservative stance on key issues and his popularity as a former NASCAR driver might just give him the edge he needs.
Theriault’s campaign has already received an outpouring of support. He took to Twitter to express his gratitude for the positive response to his campaign launch.
As the race heats up, all eyes will be on this former NASCAR driver as he navigates the twists and turns of political campaigning. Will he cross the finish line first? Only time will tell.
