Republicans and Democrats in Maine are fighting over control of the state legislature

PORTLAND (WGME) – It's the last day before Election Day on Monday, and campaigns across Maine and the country are emphasizing their messages and ramping up their efforts to get out the vote.

As we all know, there is a lot at stake, from the White House to control of Congress to control of the State House to important local issues.

In Maine, that includes Republicans trying to break the Democrats' majority in the Senate, House of Representatives or both.

There are hotly contested races across Maine that both sides are fighting for.

“We're just hoping for the best and doing what we can to help,” said Joan Kidman, who was campaigning for Vice President Kamala Harris.

Kidman and Jana Chandler are trying to reach Democrats and independents.

“I think there’s excitement but also nervousness,” Kidman said.

On Monday, they handed out fliers for Harris and information about other candidates.

“That used to be the focus, but now our focus is on the top, but it's also about voting,” Kidman said.

“Coattails are a real thing, but we don’t take it for granted,” said Joel Stetkis, chairman of the Maine Republican Party.

It's an issue on which leaders of both parties agree and where there is so much attention on who will win the White House.

“Just because it's a presidential election, doesn't mean we or the American people can take our foot off the gas,” said Sen. Mattie Daughtry (D-Brunswick).

Daughtry is running for another term.

She says people want lawmakers who will listen and make improvements when things could be better.

“Maine is a purple state. That’s something we’ve always known,” Daughtry said. “But I think they'll hear from our contestants that we recognize that and the first thing we do is listen before we start acting.”

Mike Lawler, who has run for other political offices, hopes to take Daughtry's place.

“The whole reason I’m running is to make Maine affordable again,” Daughtry said.

“The last six years that Democrats have been in control own the Maine economy that we see,” Stetkis said.

Republicans are committed to reducing property taxes, housing costs and energy costs.

“We are confident that things will change in the state and one-party rule will be over,” Stetkis said.

Lawler believes he can flip the district if people vote with their wallets.

“I don't believe either party needs to 'take control' to make changes that are good for the people of Maine,” Lawler said.

The last time Republicans held the “trifecta” was in 2012.