A newly reported audio recording has sparked controversy in Maine’s gubernatorial race, catching Republican candidate Bobby Charles proposing that federal law enforcement officers be stationed at polling places on Election Day.

According to a Report by the Bangor Daily News, Charles spoke to a group of young Republicans in Arundel last week, stating he plans to request federal intervention ahead of the upcoming election. In the recording, Charles said he intends to reach out directly to Trump administration border czar Tom Homan three to four weeks before voters head to the booths.

“I’m going to make an appeal for ICE and U.S. Marshals to be at our voting booths,” Charles reportedly said in the recording. “Do you think the illegals who are being paid money are going to like that?”

State Election Officials Push Back

The proposal has drawn swift opposition from state election authorities. Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows stated clearly that armed federal law enforcement will not be permitted at Maine polling locations.

Federal law also stands in contrast to the proposal. Under a 19th-century federal statute (18 U.S.C. § 592), it is illegal for armed federal troops or law enforcement officers to be stationed at any location where a general or special election is being held, unless necessary to repel armed enemies of the United States.

Election officials across Maine and nationwide have repeatedly emphasized that there is no evidence to support claims of widespread noncitizen voting or organized efforts paying noncitizens to vote.

Campaign Response

In response to the report, the Charles campaign defended his comments, stating that the candidate intends to pursue all legal avenues available to ensure Maine’s elections remain secure, fair, and conducted strictly in accordance with the law.

The debate comes amid heightened focus on immigration enforcement and electoral integrity across Maine, making it a central flashpoint in the ongoing gubernatorial contest.