Staff Reports
In a recent call with supporters in Maine, Donald Trump managed to create a memorable moment in political gaffes by confusing the gender of Democrat Governor Janet Mills. The misstep took place while Trump was trying to energize his base on the eve of early voting, and it certainly added an unexpected twist to his critique of the governor’s policies on immigration.
During the call, Trump characterized Mills, the first female governor of Maine, as “he” multiple times. Leaning into his trademark bravado, he unleashed a stream of accusations, suggesting that Mills was on a mission to turn the Pine Tree State into a “third world” country by welcoming thousands of migrants at the behest of the Biden administration. It seems that Trump is attempting to draw a line in the sand, warning voters that Mills’s policies could flood the state with 75,000 newcomers, which he claims she is eager to accommodate.
Maine is important to Trump. The state is one of two that divide electoral votes by congressional district, and Trump won a single electoral vote in 2016 and 2020 in the state's 2nd Congressional District. #mepolitics https://t.co/UztN1e5Tqx
— Spectrum News Maine (@SpecNewsMaine) October 9, 2024
Critics of Mills, including many conservatives, have seized on her economic plan from 2019, which was intended to bolster the workforce. Yet, it seems that the governor’s Office of New Americans has become a convenient scapegoat for those attributing the influx of foreign-born individuals solely to her. Trump’s rhetoric paints Mills as a pawn in the Democrats’ grand strategy, submitting to their demands instead of standing up for Mainers. It’s a declaration of intent that shows Trump is committed to putting the interests of Americans first, rather than allowing them to be overshadowed by immigration agendas.
Mills didn’t hesitate to fire back at Trump, suggesting he should get used to recognizing women, especially considering his opponent will soon be Kamala Harris. The irony is rich, as many have noted Trump’s history with female politicians, where gender confusion appears to be just another brick in the wall of misunderstandings. Mills’s statement serves as a reminder that in the political arena, gender and identity can often become tools for distraction rather than substantive debate.
Maine holds considerable significance for Trump, as it is one of the few states to split its electoral votes by congressional district. In both the 2016 and 2020 elections, Trump managed to snag an electoral vote from Maine’s 2nd Congressional District, making the state a key target in the upcoming battles. With early voting set in motion, it appears that Trump is not only attempting to solidify his backing but also laying the groundwork for a serious contention in the state, fueled by both humor and political theater.
In addition to his verbal blunders, Trump also recently brought attention to a widely discussed maritime issue, promising to open up parts of the Gulf of Maine that have long been restricted due to a territorial dispute. Here he presented a vision where American fishermen could benefit, particularly the lobster industry. In true Trump fashion, the former president envisions a future where Mainers can enjoy their lobster without Canadian competition, doubling down on his commitment to American interests. It’s a plan that blends humor, ambition, and a sprinkle of hyperbole—exactly what has kept his supporters engaged over the years.
