From the Associated Press:

Mitt Romney appeared to be on his way to a win in presidential preference voting by Maine Republicans as returns were counted Saturday from the party's municipal caucuses, turning the contest into a race for the No. 2 spot.

Romney, the former Massachusetts governor, had 52% of the vote with 57% of the towns holding caucuses reporting. John McCain trailed with 22%, Ron Paul was third with 19%, and Mike Huckabee had 5%. Undecided votes accounted for 2%.

Notably, Maine's two Republican U.S. Senators, Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins, support Senator McCain.

Governor Romney's statement:

Today, the people of Maine joined those from across the nation in casting their vote for conservative change in Washington. All across the state, men and women gathered to help chart the future course of our country. Tonight, they have made their voice known and have endorsed our conservative vision for a stronger America. Like many Americans, the people of Maine are tired of Washington promises made but broken.

The need for change in Washington is even more apparent today. With our economy facing uncertain times, we need a leader who actually understands how the economy works and how jobs are created. We also need a leader from outside of Washington who is ready to meet the long-term challenges facing our country. With a career spent working in the economy, creating jobs, turning around faltering institutions and imposing fiscal discipline, I am ready to bring conservative change to Washington. In this campaign, I am proud to have the support of the people of Maine.