Maine’s Nirav Shah Concedes Democratic Primary, Throws Support Behind Hannah Pingree

BOSTON/PORTLAND, Maine — Former Democratic gubernatorial candidate Nirav Shah has endorsed Hannah Pingree for governor, pledging his “whole-hearted support” and committing to help elect her in November following the conclusion of Maine’s Democratic primary.

In a gracious concession statement, Shah thanked the thousands of supporters, volunteers, staff members, and donors who fueled his campaign and called on them to unite behind Pingree as Democrats turn their focus to the general election.

“Last night, I called Hannah Pingree to congratulate her, and I want every Mainer to know that I could not have meant it more,” Shah said. “She ran a campaign of deep conviction and real heart, and our state will be fortunate to have her carrying our banner into November.”

Shah, who entered the race with a reputation built during his service as Maine’s public health leader during the COVID-19 pandemic, said Pingree has earned the trust and support of Democrats across the state.

“She has my whole-hearted support, my sincere admiration, and every ounce of help I am able to give between now and election day,” Shah said. “Starting now, I will be working to make her the next governor of Maine.”

The endorsement marks a significant moment of party unity following a competitive Democratic primary that included candidates Troy Jackson, Shenna Bellows, Angus King III, and Shah. In his statement, Shah praised his fellow candidates and thanked them for their service to the state.

“Maine is lucky to have all of them in public life,” he said.

Reflecting on his campaign, Shah described it as a grassroots effort built around honesty, public service, and a belief that Mainers wanted leaders willing to confront difficult challenges directly.

“We started with no machine, only a conviction that Mainers were hungry for someone who would show up and tell them the truth,” Shah said. “Tens of thousands of you, in every corner of this state, answered that call.”

He reserved special thanks for volunteers, campaign staff, supporters, and his family, saying he would carry their faith and support with him for the rest of his life.

Although his gubernatorial campaign has come to an end, Shah emphasized that his commitment to public service remains unchanged. He pointed to issues such as affordability, housing, and healthcare as challenges that require continued attention regardless of election outcomes.

“I got into this race because I spent the hardest days of the pandemic at kitchen tables and in hospital corridors, and I saw what this state is capable of when we refuse to leave anyone behind,” Shah said. “That work is not finished.”

For many Indian Americans across New England and beyond, Shah’s candidacy represented a historic opportunity to see a prominent South Asian public servant seek Maine’s highest elected office. While the campaign fell short of victory, Shah’s endorsement of Pingree signals a commitment to Democratic unity and continued engagement on the issues that defined his campaign.

He concluded his statement with a message of gratitude to Maine voters:

“Maine, thank you for the honor of letting me make my case to you.”