Valerie Adams, a former Assistant District Attorney, was fired after informing District Attorney Jackie Sartoris of her intention to challenge her in the 2026 election. Adams brought defense attorney John Gale to a meeting, where Sartoris claimed Adams and Gale demanded she not run. Gale denied this, citing concerns about office dysfunction. Adams was fired via text on November 4, and her termination letter was signed by Sartoris but redacted by the Maine Attorney General’s Office. Adams claimed she lost email access and was concerned about her 350 cases. Sartoris denied any victims were left vulnerable and criticized Adams’ departure, leading Matt Gagnon to refuse further interviews with her.