Democratic House candidate ends campaign, citing ‘health challenges’

One of the two candidates for the Democratic nomination in Maine House District 99 has ended her campaign, saying she is “facing some health challenges.”

“Unfortunately, I am facing some health challenges at the moment, which require me to end my campaign,” Sheila Menair said in a message published in the Harpswell Indivisible newsletter on Friday, May 6. “I offer my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed their support to my campaign. I will continue to do my part to make a positive impact in our community through my work and nonprofit.”

Menair’s departure leaves Cheryl Golek, of Harpswell Neck, as the sole candidate for the Democratic nomination.

“I look forward to joining you all in some ‘good trouble’ — as all of our efforts are needed to win in November,” Menair added. “I hope you will join me in supporting Cheryl’s campaign and work to deliver that win.”

The Facebook page and website for Menair’s campaign were down on Monday, May 9.

Menair, of Great Island, is a financial advisor and partner at Casco Bay Wealth Advisors, as well as the founder and president of a nonprofit called Together Invested that helps women build financial literacy.

“I am very disappointed I could not continue my campaign,” Menair said in an email. “Unfortunately my name will still be on the ballot in June, and I wish it could have been removed as I do not want to add any confusion to this important race.”

When a candidate withdraws within 70 days of a primary, the Maine Department of the Secretary of State instructs local election officials to distribute notices with absentee ballots and post notices at polling places to inform voters of the withdrawal, according to department spokesperson Emily Cook. Votes for withdrawn candidates are counted as blanks.

Menair formally withdrew from the race on Monday, May 9, Cook said.

The other Democratic candidate, Golek, is a co-founder of The Vicarage by the Sea, a home for people with dementia. She is a member of the Equal Justice Partners’ Circle, which advocates for policies to improve the lives of Maine people in poverty.

There are two candidates for the Republican nomination: Michael Lawler, of Brunswick, a former Air Force pilot and Apple engineer; and Stephen “Bubba” Davis, of Cundy’s Harbor, a fisherman and former Bath Iron Works engineer.

One of the three candidates will replace Rep. Jay McCreight, D-Harpswell, who cannot seek reelection because of term limits.

Menair called McCreight “an amazing woman” and legislator “who was very successful in working respectfully and collaboratively to get things done for the people of Harpswell.” She said she hopes McCreight’s successor will carry on her “tradition of integrity.”

“I believe candidate Cheryl Golek will do just that and work hard for the people of Harpswell,” Menair said.

The primary election will take place on June 14. The winners will advance to the general election on Nov. 8. House District 99 includes Harpswell and east Brunswick.