Overview

• The town’s 850 residents live in a region that gave nearly 90% support to Trump in the last election, pitting long-established conservatives against incoming progressives.
• Many locals now avoid saying Trump’s name or discussing politics in public spaces to prevent heated confrontations.
• Early-July protests against a Trump-backed law unfolded alongside pro-Trump vendors, highlighting growing local tensions.
• Business boycotts have targeted owners over political displays, including calls to remove an LGBT+ flag from a shop wall.
• Mayor Greg Schene has urged residents to seek a middle ground and restore the community’s tradition of peaceful coexistence.