What was predicted to be a relatively light election across Maine has so far drawn steady lines of Aroostook County voters.
The off-year general election included two key state referendums, one on making changes to absentee voting and other Maine voter laws and the other on red-flag actions for firearm owners deemed to be a danger to themselves or others.
Most Aroostook communities are addressing only the state votes, while a handful have town and school district leaders on the ballots.
Overall, Maine had logged more absentee ballot requests this year a week before the election than in previous years, according to Maine Public.
In Caribou at about 1:30 p.m., a few voters stood in line or voted at the Caribou Wellness and Recreation Center. It was the least busy the day had been so far, City Clerk Danielle Brissette said.
“There was a line out the door at 8 a.m.,” Brissette said. “I was surprised to see the numbers here today.”
At the same time in Presque Isle, City Clerk Kim Finnemore said there had been roughly 600 residents voting in person at the Sargent Family Community Center.
So far, election workers had processed about 420 absentee ballots for city residents, she said.
In Houlton, too, polls were steadily busy all day, election crews reported. By 2:50 p.m., 662 residents had cast their ballots and 300 absentee ballots had been turned in.
Houlton has 3,506 registered voters.
Polls will close in most locations at 8 p.m.
For ongoing statewide election coverage, visit the Bangor Daily News’ 2025 election results section and see more local results on The County.
The County’s Kathleen Phalen Tomaselli and Cameron Levasseur contributed reporting.
