Brunswick, Dec. 11 -- A new statewide poll released today shows Nirav Shah in first place in the Democratic primary for governor, leading the field with the highest level of likely support, reflecting the deep trust he built with Mainers during his service at the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the growing enthusiasm behind his candidacy.

The new Pan Atlantic Research Poll - conducted November 29 through December 7 - shows Shah leading the field in the 2026 gubernatorial race, with 24% of likely Democratic primary voters saying they would "likely support" his candidacy, the highest of any candidate tested.

"Mainers saw Nirav Shah lead with clarity, compassion, and courage during one of the most difficult mome...