BANGOR, Maine — On a recent phone call aimed at rallying supporters in Maine, Republican Donald Trump mistakenly misidentified Democratic Governor Janet Mills as a male, according to a report from The Bangor Daily News.
The recording from the call revealed Trump criticizing Mills over immigration policies, claiming her approach would lead Maine down the path of becoming a “third world” nation. This call occurred on Monday, coinciding with the commencement of early voting in the state.
During the call, Trump repeatedly referred to the state’s first female governor as “he,” while accusing her of attempting to “resettle 75,000 migrants” under the direction of the Biden administration. “He’s weak and ineffective, and they told him to do so. He’s saying, ‘Yes, sir. Yes, ma’am. I will do it,’” Trump asserted, addressing Mills, who is currently serving her second term.
Critics on the right have merged a 2019 workforce growth plan that proposes welcoming 75,000 new workers with a recently established Office of New Americans, insinuating that Mills is interested solely in foreign immigration. In response, Mills briefly commented on social media platform X, referencing Trump’s opponent, Democrat Kamala Harris: “He better get used to recognizing women. He’s about to get beat by one.”
The Trump campaign has yet to issue a response regarding the remarks.
Trump’s interest in Maine stems from the state’s unique electoral structure, which allows electoral votes to be divided by congressional district. In both 2016 and 2020, Trump secured one electoral vote from Maine’s 2nd Congressional District.
Additionally, Trump discussed his plans concerning aspects of the Gulf of Maine, highlighting a 277-square-mile contested area near Canada as well as a national marine monument that spans 5,000 square miles. While serving as president, he opened this monument to lobstering activities. “The Canadians are able to fish there, but the Americans aren’t. We’re going to open it up,” Trump stated. “You’re going to have Maine lobster and you’re going to have it right near you. Think of it, 5,000 square miles.”
