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State Rep. Laurel Libby announced Monday that she will not seek reelection and instead will launch a network of organizations focused on educating and mobilizing conservatives.

Libby, a Republican who has represented Auburn and Minot for three terms, said the network with include a nonprofit organization, a state political action committee and an overarching communication network.

She also announced the launch of the “Lead Maine Committee,” a federal PAC created in partnership with Sentinel Action Fund to support U.S. Sen. Susan Collins’ reelection campaign in 2026 and Republicans in future elections.

“Maine needs a long-term, durable campaign infrastructure that grows our conservative grassroots movement and sets Republicans up for success in 2026 and beyond,” Libby said in a statement. “Lead Maine and its affiliated organizations are committed to building exactly that by educating and mobilizing citizens to drive meaningful societal and electoral change at both the state and national levels.”

While Libby said she would not seek another term in the state Legislature, she did not say if she’s considering running for any other offices. She has long been considered a top candidate for governor.

Earlier this year, Libby drew nationwide attention after she made a post on social media featuring photos of a high school athlete who won a girls track competition and who had competed in boys track the previous year. Her post included a photo of the student and first names in quotation marks, as well as the school’s name.

The Maine House censured Libby, but the U.S. Supreme Court restored her right to vote after she filed a lawsuit.

This story will be updated.

Gillian Graham is a general assignment reporter for the Portland Press Herald. A lifelong Mainer and graduate of the University of Southern Maine, she has worked as a journalist since 2005 and joined the...

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