I’d call LePage a real conservative, and he’s likely to win in November.
Maine is about as conservative, per gallup, as NH, and more conservative than VT, MA, RI, CT, NY, NJ.
A likeable charismatic conservative can win in Maine.
Sure... for governor, ME-2. But Jim Longley (Jr.) got steamrolled by a stuffed shirt after one term, and he wasn't exactly hard right. Federal elections are tough, the GOP bench has been thin for a long time, and the trickle of Bay Staters continues to migrate up the coast as Portland strives to become the San Francisco of the East.
LePage is something of a miracle. I couldn't believe Les Otten v2 had resurfaced for another go. Good grief!
Snowe & Collins can be terribly frustrating, but I'm surprised at how many tough issues they actually come through on.
One step at a time.