The Lincoln County Republican County (LCRC) meeting was held at the Jefferson fire station on April 26 with more than 50 people in attendance. It was truly a standing room only event. Chairwoman Patty Minerich, opened with the pledge of allegiance. State Committee Woman, Jeanette Wheeler, then led the benediction. The first topic was the June 13 special election in House District 45, towns of Bremen, Friendship, Louds Island, Waldoboro and Washington. Abden Simmons, Republican candidate, has decades of experience running a fishing business, experience as a legislator, understands the Maine work ethic, has a solid environmental record, and would be a strong voice in Augusta for the district.

Ed Polewarczyk, Representative HD-47 provided a legislative update. He explained that Republicans presently have almost no real voice in the governing process. The House and Senate both have Democrat majorities meaning they control committee assignments and have a majority in all committees. An attempt to restore normal exemptions for the Covid vaccines, a bill with significant grass roots support, failed to pass with Legislators voting along party lines. In another case, a political maneuver involving ending the legislative session then opening an special session, allowed a record-breaking $10,000,000,000 budget to be passed by a simple majority with no Republican support.

Sam Bridges, Maine GOP Vice Chair, then addressed the audience. For many at the meeting this was their first chance to hear from our new Vice Chair. At 18 years old, he is the youngest to be elected to that position. The topics, questions, and discussions covered a wide and diverse range of issues. Sam believes the challenge for Republicans is to get information out to the voters especially younger people and those who are not engaged in politics. He encouraged civil discourse while holding firm to core values and highlighted the general fear conservatives have today about speaking out. He described very positive interactions where he shared HIS beliefs with others and referenced Turning Point USA as an organization who is growing in Maine and has a mission to educate students about conservative values and the importance of getting involved. After almost an hour of speaking and answering questions our new Vice Chair received a standing ovation. He is young, energetic, well-informed, and is a great addition to Maine’s GOP team.

Meeting participants generously contributed a large assortment of non-perishable food items that were donated to the Jefferson Area Community Food Pantry.

The LCRC is scheduling monthly meetings and events at various towns in Lincoln County throughout 2023. Please visit our website at lincolncountyrepublicans.org for more information.