BRUNSWICK, Maine (Diya TV) — Democratic gubernatorial candidate Nirav Shah has crossed a major fundraising milestone, signaling strong momentum in Maine’s closely watched primary race.
Shah’s campaign announced it has raised more than $1 million in just six months since launching. More than $500,000 came in during the most recent reporting period. The campaign also reported over $600,000 cash on hand, giving it a solid financial position as the race enters its final stretch. The campaign said it received contributions from 2,831 individual donors. Support came from all 16 counties in Maine. Nearly 80% of contributions came from in-state donors. This broad base highlights growing local support for Shah’s candidacy.
“This campaign has always been about Mainers,” Shah said. “This milestone shows what’s possible when people come together to build something from the ground up.”
The fundraising success comes with just seven weeks remaining before the Democratic primary. Campaign officials say the strong cash reserves will help expand voter outreach efforts across the state. Earlier this week, Shah launched his first television ad titled “Driveways.” The campaign backed the ad with a six-figure buy across broadcast and cable markets in Portland and Bangor. The move signals a shift into a more aggressive communication phase. Shah has positioned himself as a political outsider. His campaign says this message resonates with voters seeking practical solutions and fresh leadership.
Public polling data shows Shah leading the Democratic primary race. Five separate polls released over several months place him ahead of his competitors. A Pan Atlantic Research poll conducted between late November and early December showed Shah with 24% support. Angus King III followed with 19%, while Hannah Pingree had 18%. Shenna Bellows and Troy Jackson trailed behind. An internal poll conducted by Hart Research in January showed Shah expanding his lead to 35%. Other candidates remained in the low teens. The same poll found that 72% of Shah supporters strongly backed him, the highest intensity level among all candidates.
A February poll by the University of New Hampshire placed Shah at 25%, again leading the field. The survey also showed he had a strong favorability rating, with 60% of voters viewing him positively. Another Pan Atlantic poll conducted in February and early March showed Shah tied at 24% with King. However, he remained among the top contenders. A late March internal poll for Jackson still placed Shah in the lead with 31%, reinforcing his consistent performance across surveys.
Shah’s campaign has focused on grassroots outreach and direct voter engagement. Since launching, he has held 22 public town halls. These events included unscreened questions, allowing voters to raise concerns directly. The campaign has built a volunteer network of more than 750 people. It also launched a coordinated statewide organizing effort early in the race. Shah has earned endorsements from several prominent figures and groups. These include Lewiston Mayor Carl Sheline and organizations such as 3.14 Action and IMPACT. Dozens of community leaders have also voiced support.
Shah has released detailed policy plans on key issues. These include health care, affordability, education, and support for older residents. He has also emphasized reproductive rights and policies aimed at protecting Maine from actions by the Trump administration. His campaign message focuses on delivering results and addressing everyday concerns for Maine families. He has emphasized practical solutions over political rhetoric.
“We’re entering the final stretch with momentum and resources,” Shah said. “We remain focused on delivering for Maine families.”
