FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, July 17, 2020
Contact: Kristen Schulze Muszynski
207-626-8400

Secretary Dunlap continues hearing for challenge of Max Linn candidate petitions

AUGUSTA – Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap has scheduled a continuance of the hearing to address the challenge of candidate nomination petitions received by the Elections Division of the Bureau of Corporations, Elections and Commissions for U.S. Senate candidate Max Linn.

The challenge hearing of the petitions of Max Linn, candidate for U.S. Senate, submitted by Mary Small of Vote My Way, began on Thursday, July 16 at 9 a.m. using remote virtual meeting software. The continuance was requested by the attorney representing the challenger, and granted by Secretary Dunlap.

The hearing is now continued to Monday, July 20, 2020 at 9 a.m., via remote virtual meeting software. The hearing officer will be Secretary Dunlap, assisted by Assistant Attorney General Phyllis Gardiner.

Secretary Dunlap is required by law to hold a hearing on any valid challenge within 7 days of the filing deadline (which was Thursday, July 9) and issue a ruling within 5 days after the hearing is completed. A challenger or a candidate may appeal the decision of the Secretary of State by commencing an action in the Superior Court within five days of the decision.

The ruling will determine whether the candidate will be disqualified from appearing on the November 3, 2020 General Election ballot.

The Department of the Secretary of State will provide access to the hearing upon request to members of the media and public. Contact Communications Director Kristen Muszynski to submit an access request, at kristen.muszynski@maine.gov. The hearing will also be recorded and available for public access upon request after it is concluded.