On Wednesday, January 14, longtime community leader and small business owner Shanna Cox officially announced her candidacy for Maine State Senate District 21, representing the City of Lewiston. The announcement follows incumbent Senator Peggy Rotundo’s decision not to seek re-election in 2026.
“First, I want to sincerely thank Senator Peggy Rotundo for her decades of dedicated service to our region,” said Shanna Cox. “She has been a tireless advocate for Lewiston, and her leadership has strengthened our community; marked by her integrity, deep listening, and hard work. I am proud to call her both a role model and a friend.”
“I know what it means to work hard and still struggle to make ends meet,” Shanna Cox continued. “Lewiston’s families, workers, and seniors deserve a strong voice in Augusta, someone who, like Senator Rotundo, stays focused on real solutions instead of partisan games. As a State Senator, I will fight to lower costs, expand access to quality healthcare, and build a community where every person has stability, dignity, and the opportunity to thrive.”
Throughout her career in the Lewiston Auburn region, Shanna Cox has worked at the intersection of community advocacy and economic growth. As the President and CEO of a business-serving association for more than six years, she was a pivotal leader during the COVID-19 pandemic, working across sectors to secure resources for local businesses, bolster the workforce, and drive regional recovery. Her professional background is rooted in helping families build economic resilience, supporting small businesses, and strengthening neighborhoods through strategic planning and forging partnerships.
“Shanna Cox is a person who gets things done. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Shanna for over 15 years, and her drive, focus, and positive energy has never ceased to amaze me.” Said community leader and housing advocate Craig Saddlemire. “She helped to lay the groundwork for the city to produce the Neighborhood Transformation Plan, a model document that demonstrates the power of community process and inclusive planning. These efforts have leveraged over $100 million of funds for mixed-income housing in Lewiston, and helped to jumpstart investment in housing that had been absent for over a decade. Throughout her career, I have seen how much Shanna loves this city, and how she is willing to fight for it with passion and grit. I cannot think of a more exciting person to support for Senate District 21 than Shanna Cox.”
“Shanna is deeply passionate about the Lewiston community, and a dedicated advocate for all who live, work, study, and own businesses here.” said Billie Jo Brito, owner of Blais Flowers, Gift Shop & Greenhouses. “Known for her active listening and collaborative approach, Shanna works tirelessly to find solutions where everyone benefits. She faces challenges with determination and inspires those around her to do their best. Through her commitment to small businesses and community growth, Shanna brings a fresh perspective and a positive, forward-thinking voice to Lewiston’s future.”
Senate District 21 includes the City of Lewiston and is an open seat for the 2026 election cycle.