AUGUSTA — Maine Democrats and Republicans are making a last-minute drive to find candidates willing to run this November for the state House and Senate.

Monday was the last day that candidates could withdraw and still be replaced on the ballot. Overall, 50 House and Senate candidates withdrew from their races after the June 10 primary.

Efforts are already underway by local party committees to replace withdrawn candidates with willing contenders. The parties have until July 28 to ensure the races don’t go uncontested.

Much of the focus has been on the battle for Maine governor, but the parties say the legislative races are a top priority. Republicans are hoping to retake control of both chambers from Democrats, who swept back into the majority two years ago.