Matt James Unseats Mayor Rick Meehan in Ocean City
Matt James defeated incumbent Mayor Rick Meehan in the Ocean City municipal election to become the new mayor of the Maryland town.
Council President Matt James won the mayoral election in Ocean City, Maryland, on November 4, 2026, defeating incumbent Mayor Rick Meehan. James secured 1,438 votes to Meehan's 1,136, ending Meehan's tenure as mayor which had begun in 2006.
The election followed a political controversy involving allegations that James used Maryland State Police resources for his campaign. Town officials later clarified these claims before the final vote.
In the City Council races, Carol Proctor, Billy Apostolou, and Larry Noccolino won seats, while Wayne Johnson was not elected. The newly elected officials will hold an organizational meeting on November 5 at City Hall to elect a Council President and Council Secretary.
