A FRESH APPROACH FOR MAINE
Meet Owen McCarthy
Owen McCarthy’s story is one of hard work, opportunity, and commitment to the people of Maine. Raised in Patten, a town of just over a thousand people, he grew up watching his father, a third-generation logger, leave for work at 2 a.m. and still make time for his family. His mother, a second-generation lunch lady, taught him the power of community. Their example shaped his belief that leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about showing up, working hard, and helping others succeed.
From growing up in a trailer on his grandfather’s land to launching a nationally recognized healthcare company, Owen’s story is one of hard work joined with opportunity. Owen graduated from Katahdin High School and studied engineering at the University of Maine on the Pulp and Paper scholarship, becoming the first in his family to graduate from college. Later, he earned an MBA from Harvard Business School, where he learned how to build and lead organizations.
Owen co-founded MedRhythms, a company pioneering FDA-approved technology to help people regain mobility after a stroke, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease. Originally launched in Boston, he moved the business to Maine, proving that world-class innovation can thrive here. Under his leadership, MedRhythms has raised over $60 million in capital, was recognized as an FDA breakthrough technology, and created high-paying jobs in Maine—all while advancing cutting-edge technology that serves people nationwide.
Beyond business, Owen is deeply involved in Maine’s future. As a Trustee for the University of Maine System, he helps oversee a network of seven public universities that educates nearly 30,000 students. His leadership extends to the Rural Futures Fund, where he works to lift up young people in small communities-like Patten, and the Digital Therapeutics Alliance, where he advocates for new approaches to healthcare. In recognition of his impact, he was named a Presidential Leadership Scholar.
Now, Owen is ready to bring a fresh approach to Maine’s toughest challenges. He is ready to deliver a bold economic vision for Maine—one that invests in local talent, energizes our workforce, and unlocks opportunities in every community. In the process, he will give Mainers a reprieve from Janet Mills’ overspending and roll back the parade of tax and fee increases that are squeezing family budgets. He will put his business skills to work streamlining regulations and making state government more efficient, so taxpayers get more value for their hard-earned tax dollars. He will cut the red tape that has stifled economic development, makes it nearly impossible to build affordable homes and puts the cost of living in Maine out of reach for our working families. Despite record per pupil spending, Maine’s student test scores are at record lows. Owen will restore accountability in K-12 education to ensure every child receives the world class education taxpayers are funding. Owen will use his entrepreneurial experience in healthcare to deliver innovative solutions, improve outcomes, and lower costs for Mainers.
Owen, his wife Holly, and their two sons live in Gorham and spend summers on Porter Lake. They are members of Rock Church in Scarborough. In his free time, Owen enjoys playing basketball and watching Maine high school basketball—a hobby that deepens his connection to communities across the state and fuels his commitment to Maine ensuring remains a place where the next generation can thrive. He brings a fresh perspective, a proven track record, and a steadfast commitment to Maine’s people.
