URGENT UPDATE: A wave of outrage has erupted from right-wing media against newly elected Bangor City Councilor Angela Walker, following revelations about her criminal past. Despite the backlash, local residents firmly support Walker, who received over 2,000 votes in the recent election.
Walker, who was convicted of manslaughter in 2003, has become a focal point of controversy after national outlets like the New York Post and Fox News reported on her past. Critics on social media, many from outside Bangor, expressed shock at her election, but local leaders argue the criticism does not reflect the community’s sentiment.
City council chair Susan Hawes defended Walker, stating, “These three people were voted by the citizens,” emphasizing that the information surrounding Walker’s past is not new to residents. Walker and her brother were convicted following the death of Derek Rogers, who was involved in a confrontation with Walker. Reports indicate Rogers was found severely beaten and suffocated with sand after allegedly using a derogatory term for Native American women.
Walker, who is currently in recovery from addiction and serves as the peer services coordinator for the Bangor Area Recovery Network, aims to use her experiences to advocate for the city’s vulnerable populations amid ongoing crises related to homelessness and addiction. She has previously stated, “I want people to see that it’s possible that we can change.”
The backlash has drawn comments from high-profile figures, including U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, who expressed confusion on social media regarding Walker’s election. Local councilor Joe Leonard criticized Cruz’s remarks, urging him to focus on his own constituents instead.
Local officials and recovery advocates view Walker’s election as a testament to personal growth and community service. Doug Dunbar, who leads the Penobscot County Cares coalition, highlighted Walker’s lived experiences as invaluable during the current opioid crisis. “We probably couldn’t have a better person, who has the right kind of lived experience, on the Bangor City Council at this moment,” he stated.
Even those who did not support Walker in the election recognize her legitimacy. A longtime Bangor resident, who requested anonymity, commented, “She was elected, so that’s the way it works,” indicating a broader acceptance of the democratic process.
As the council prepares to address critical issues facing Bangor, Walker’s supporters remain hopeful that her unique perspective will foster positive change in the community. The ongoing discussion surrounding her election reflects a deeper conversation about redemption and the potential for growth, urging society to look beyond past mistakes.
Stay tuned for further developments on this story as it unfolds and the impact Walker’s election may have on the Bangor community.
