AUGUSTA – August 13, 2026 – A recent poll by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) shows 85% of Maine voters believe all Americans, regardless of the type of health insurance they have, should have access to affordable cancer screening and treatment close to home.
“With more than two million people in the U.S. expected to be diagnosed with cancer this year, including nearly 11,000 here in Maine, it’s more important than ever for voters to make their voices heard on the health care issues that matter to them most,” said Julia MacDonald, Maine director of government relations ACS CAN. “Policy decisions stand at the very core of many barriers people face during their cancer diagnosis and treatment. Whether it’s voting to support lifesaving cancer research or access to health care and cancer screenings, voters have the power to make cancer issues a top priority this election season.”
According to the poll results, likely voters in Maine are supportive of candidates who work to increase access to the healthcare people need. Indeed, 65% of likely voters in Maine indicate they would be more likely to vote (43% much more likely) to elect an official who was a leader in ensuring healthcare is affordable and accessible.
This supportive attitude toward federal funding for cancer research and for cancer prevention programs is also seen in vote likelihood, with majorities saying they would be more likely to vote for candidates who are leaders for funding and pluralities saying they would be much more likely to vote for these candidates
“Voters in our state clearly understand the importance of affordable health coverage as well as the critical need for funding of lifesaving cancer research – and we want our lawmakers to prioritize these issues,” said Mikala Bousquest, a lead volunteer for ACS CAN in Maine. “I hope every Mainer will join me in learning more about these critical health care issues and find out where their candidates stand.”
Conducted by Lake Research Partners and the Tarrance Group, this poll is a part of ACS CAN’s national Cancer Votes campaign—the country’s leading voter education program for cancer-related issues and policies.
Individuals can register to vote, find their polling location, and learn more about the Cancer Votes program and upcoming local events by visiting cancervotes.org. ACS CAN is strictly nonpartisan and does not endorse, oppose, or contribute to any candidate or political party.
To view the full polling memo, click here.
###
About ACS CAN
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) advocates for evidence-based public policies to reduce the cancer burden for everyone. We engage our volunteers across the country to make their voices heard by policymakers at every level of government. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We stand with our volunteers, working to make cancer a top priority for policymakers in cities, states and our nation’s capital. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.