About Pine Tree Key

Helping Mainers Navigate Elections with Clarity

Pine Tree Key is an independent, non-partisan tool designed to help Maine voters compare their views on policy issues with candidates running in the 2026 gubernatorial election. By answering a series of policy-related statements, users can see how their positions align with those of the candidates—helping them make informed decisions based on the issues that matter most to them.

The side-by-side comparison feature for the 2026 gubernatorial race is ready to launch. It will go live once multiple candidates have submitted completed responses to the standardized statement set. Candidate responses are added on a rolling basis and displayed in full as they are received.

Pine Tree Key is currently working with the Federal Election Commission to expand this comparison tool to include U.S. Senate candidates.

Why I Created Pine Tree Key

Understanding where candidates stand on key issues isn't always easy. Campaign websites, news articles, and social media can sometimes be overwhelming or unclear. I created Pine Tree Key to simplify this process, offering a straightforward way for voters to compare their perspectives with those of the candidates—without bias, confusion, or unnecessary complexity.

How It Works

1. Answer Policy Statements - Evaluate a series of policy-related statements by selecting agree, disagree, neutral, or skip.
2. Weigh Your Priorities - Identify the issues that matter most to you by weighting up to three statements.
3. View Your Results - See how closely your views align with each candidate and compare their responses side by side.

For Candidates & Campaigns

Pine Tree Key invites all declared candidates in the covered races to participate under the same conditions. If you are a candidate or campaign staff member and have received an invitation or Google Form from Pine Tree Key, you can find details about how responses are collected, how they are displayed, and how to request updates in the Candidates & Campaign FAQ.

Independent & Transparent

Pine Tree Key does not endorse any candidate, party, or policy position. Candidate responses come from publicly available sources or direct submissions, ensuring transparency and accuracy.

This project is currently a one-person effort, and I rely on community feedback to improve and refine the tool. If you'd like to support Pine Tree Key, consider contributing via Buy Me a Coffee —or simply spread the word!

Get in Touch

If you have any questions, feedback, or suggestions, feel free to reach out at info@pinetreekey.com. Your input helps make Pine Tree Key a better resource for all Maine voters.

Disclaimer

Pine Tree Key is an independent, nonpartisan project created and managed by a single individual. It is not affiliated with or authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. Paid for by Pine Tree Key.