The raw political battle for control of a Maine mill town
A raw political battle for control of a Maine mill town is playing out with recall petitions, AI-generated memes, and a controversial town council.
- Incident date
- May 2026
- Target
- David Ireland
Voters in Lincoln, Maine are seeking to recall four town councilors after months of political turmoil. The battle includes AI-generated memes and a planned event honoring President Donald Trump's birthday.
What happened
Four conservative councilors, including Vice Chair David Ireland, face recall petitions due to proposed cuts and chaotic meetings. Since November, the council has seen three town managers come and go. Voters can sign petitions targeting Ireland, Sheldon Hanington, Lee Rand, and Eric Rojo; over 700 signatures on any petition will trigger a recall election. The controversy involves AI-generated memes and Ireland’s plans for a Donald Trump birthday event. Councilors say they are addressing issues left by the previous council, while the former councilor leading the recall effort cites public anger over the recent firing of a town manager.