Stover re-elected to represent Boothbay’s House District

Holly Stover (D) was re-elected on Tuesday, November 5 to represent the Boothbay area in the Maine House of Representatives.

With 3,978 votes, Stover defeated James “Bill” Hunt III (R), who received 2,095 votes. She will retain her seat in Maine’s 48th District for two more years, according to unofficial results released early Wednesday.

Boothbay Harbor Town Clerk Michelle Farnham said 1358 residents voted in this year’s elections, plus 617 by absentee voting. “We also have a lot of new voters this year,” Farnham added.

District 48 includes Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Edgecombe, South Bristol, Southport and Westport Island.

Edgecombe Town Clerk Claudia Coffin said two poll workers were hired this year to accommodate the expected high voter turnout.

A photo of Edgecombe Town Hall taken on November 5 during the 2024 48th District election. Laura Sitterly/The Times Record

Stover said she plans to work with state and local leaders to advocate for policies that expand access to housing and health care.

She is also committed to addressing threats to the fishing industry posed by climate change and warming waters in the Gulf of Maine by advocating for balanced policies and ensuring access to wholesale markets and needed resources.

While the presidential election was the main focus of the polls, some voters, including Sean Levin, showed interest in local candidates.

Levine, who works for Maine Veterans at Need Inc., praised Stover. “Sometimes a party isn’t as important as recognizing that someone is doing a great job and will continue to do so,” he said.

“I want to express my heartfelt thanks to my campaign team, volunteers and supporters,” Stover said. “These elections are aimed not only at obtaining a mandate,” she emphasized. “This is about amplifying the voices of our community and addressing the issues that matter most to our families – education, health care and economic opportunity. I promise to listen, fight for our shared values, and work tirelessly to bring about the change we need. Together we will solve problems and take advantage of emerging opportunities.”

Hunt congratulated Stover. “I hope she will dedicate her term to serving all the people of Lincoln County,” he said.