After a difficult year, Mainers share their hopes for America in 2026

People walk along Main Street in Freeport on Wednesday, taking part in what they called a Walking Vigil of Hope, stopping at various points to voice what their hopes for 2026 are. (Gregory Rec/Staff Photographer)
Elizabeth Hale of Pownal holds a sign while walking with a group of people in Freeport on Wednesday in what the group called a Walking Vigil of Hope. (Gregory Rec/Staff Photographer)
Anna Brown of Freeport speaks into microphones saying what her hopes for 2026 are during a walking vigil in Freeport on Wednesday. (Gregory Rec/Staff Photographer)
A group of people cross Main Street near the L.L. Bean flagship store in Freeport on Wednesday, taking part in that they called a Walking Vigil of Hope. (Gregory Rec/Staff Photographer)