Russell wins Republican primary, will challenge Rep. Pingree in 1st District [Video]

Ronald Russell, of Kennebunkport, beat Andrew Piantidosi, of Cape Elizabeth, in the 1st Congressional District Republican primary Tuesday and will challenge U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree in November’s election, The Associated Press reported.

With 82% of votes counted just before midnight., Russell had 56% of the vote, or 13,921 votes, while Piantidosi had 44% of the vote, or 10,938 votes.

Piantidosi formerly worked in sales and business development and is a substitute teacher in South Portland schools. Russell is a retired U.S. Army veteran who also ran a military defense consulting business in North Carolina.

Piantidosi, 37, said part of the reason he is running is because of the challenges he and his wife have faced trying to get services for their young daughter with autism, and he said he wants to ensure parents get the right resources for their children and have the right to choose their schools. He also …