(NEWS CENTER Maine) — The long list to Maine's next governor got a little shorter Monday.
Senate President Mike Thibodeau has dropped out of the race, saying in a Facebook post, 'Life is about setting priorities. My service to Waldo County, fulfilling my role as Senate President, being leader of the Senate Republican caucus, and running my business are all priorities I take very seriously. Over the last few months, I’ve come to realize there just isn’t time to do all of these things and run for governor at the same time.'
Thibodeau said another reason for his decision is that there are many important issues in front of Maine's Legislature that need his time and attention.
With Thibodeau out, that leaves Senate Minority Leader Garrett Mason, House Minority Leader Ken Fredette, businessman Shawn Moody and former DHHS Commissioner Mary Mayhew, all vying for the GOP nomination.
The Republican primary will be held June 12th.