Meet
Robert
Wessels
Husband. Father. Business Leader. Problem Solver.
I’m not a career politician—and I’m okay with that. I’m a Maine family man with a deep love for business, leadership, and community. I believe those are exactly what Augusta needs right now.
My wife Christie and I were married in South Paris in 2001, and together we’ve raised three incredible kids: Joshua, Davey, and Lana. Watching each of them grow into hard-working, purpose-driven young adults has been one of the greatest joys of my life. I’m a family-first kind of guy, and I believe a strong, loving home is the best foundation any child can have.
A Career Built on Hard Work and Real Experience
My career began in 2004 when I took an overnight job at Walmart, stocking shelves—because we needed health insurance. I also worked as a postal substitute during the day to make ends meet and we could let Christie stay home with the kids. Over time, I worked my way up to assistant manager and eventually shift manager, learning invaluable lessons about leadership and responsibility along the way.
In 2011, I transitioned to store management at US cellular, where I’ve spent over a decade leading teams, training employees, and delivering results. Two decades in the retail world has shaped who I am—organized, disciplined, and focused on helping others succeed.
A Life of Service and Challenge
In 2012, I was elected to the Town of Paris’ selectboard. It was an honor to serve my community, and those four years taught me the value of strong local leadership. I stepped back to prioritize time with my kids, knowing those years would go by fast (I was right!).
I’m someone who believes in setting goals and chasing them. I ran five marathons to finally break the 4-hour mark in Philadelphia, organized a local 5K community glow run, opened an ice cream shop with my family during the pandemic, and earned my MBA during that same time. I thrive on doing hard things—and helping others do the same.
Why I’m Running for Governor
The bottom line is simple: I see the need, and I’m willing to step up.
Maine doesn’t need more politics as usual—we need real leadership. I want a future where my children and (someday) grandchildren can live, work, and thrive right here at home. We need a governor who is humble enough to listen, strong enough to act, and determined enough to do what’s right:
· Support families and parents
· Control runaway government spending
· Grow businesses and our economy—without raising taxes
· Challenge the status quo and bring a fresh perspective to Augusta
If we keep doing things the same way, we’ll keep getting the same results.
I’m running to bring a fresh, selfless approach to the Blaine House.
Maine’s Budget Is Broken —
Let’s Fix It Together
In his campaign launch video, Robert Wessels, Republican candidate for Governor of Maine, addresses the pressing issue of Maine's state budget. He emphasizes the need for a "back-to-basics" approach to budgeting, advocating for fiscal responsibility and reduced government spending.
Wessels believes that Maine's high tax rates are a burden on its residents and that the state's spending habits are unsustainable. He calls for a reevaluation of budget priorities to ensure that taxpayer money is used efficiently and effectively.
As a lifelong Republican and advocate for personal freedom, Wessels is committed to policies that empower individuals and limit government overreach. He argues that by making tough decisions now, Maine can avoid more severe financial challenges in the future.