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Many old-time Mainers, from all political parties, say they support Sen. Susan Collins because she brings money back to the state as chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee. There is also a certain nostalgia many Mainers feel. “She’s done well for us in the past” and “she’s independent.” In truth, Collins has cost us more by following Donald Trump’s policies.

Collins has voted with Trump 95% of the time, resulting in extreme financial pain for most Mainers as well as Americans across the country. The war in Iran, tariffs, inflation, steep cost increases to gas and diesel, heat and groceries, the ballooning deficit, rising interest and mortgage rates, unaffordable housing, reduced SNAP benefits and $3 billion in Medicaid funding cuts in Maine alone to take effect in January — together with out-of-control immigration officers. These all have resulted from Trump’s policies, most of which Susan Collins has supported.

Until the Senate and the House are flipped, the unrestrained chaos, financial devastation and erosion to democracy will continue. What happens nationally affects Mainers too. It is time for Mainers to vote to push back against the impacts of Trump’s worst behaviors and put the country back on track. It’s time to put personal nostalgia aside, recognize that perfect is the enemy of good, and vote Susan Collins out and Troy Jackson in.

How will everyone feel if the Senate stays in Trump’s Republican control because Maine reelected Collins?

Susan Duncan
Phippsburg