With the November general election rapidly approaching, two local candidates challenging incumbents for their seats in the Maine State Legislature withdrew from their respective races earlier this month, according to the Maine Secretary of State. 

Spruce Head resident Karry Leparulo, a Republican, withdraw Aug. 7 from the race against incumbent Ann Matlack, a Spruce Head Democrat, for House District 92. 

House District 92 serves the communities of Cushing, Matinicus Isle, South Thomaston, St. George, Thomaston, Criehaven Township and Muscle Ridge Islands Township. 

Belfast resident Matthew Digioia, a Republican, withdrew Aug. 5 from the race against incumbent Janice Dodge, a Belfast Democrat, for House District 97. 

House District 97 serves the communities of Belfast, Northport and Waldo. 

Neither Leparulo or Digioia responded to a request for comment on their decision to withdraw from their respective races. 

After a candidate withdraws following the primary election, a replacement candidate from the same political party can be appointed. 

William C. Elliott, Jr., a Republican from Belfast, will replace Digioia on the ballot for House District 97. Elliott did not respond to a request to provide more information on his campaign. 

No replacement for Leparulo has been appointed, as of Aug. 24 at 3 p.m., in the House District 92 race.