PORTLAND -- Backers of independent presidential candidate Ralph Nader say later today, they will submit petitions in Augusta to place his name on the November ballot in Maine.<

Campaigners for Nader and running-mate Matt Gonzalez say they'll file more than 5,500 signatures, or 1,500 more than the required minimum.

The Nader campaign says Maine will be the 30th state in which the longtime consumer advocate has filed for a ballot line.

Nader, who's still loathed by many Democrats who accuse him of costing Al Gore the 2000 election, announced his latest candidacy in February. The 74-year-old maintains that most voters are disenchanted with the two major parties because of the shaky economy and the prolonged war in Iraq.