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Susan Collins says she’s willing to stand up to Donald Trump. After nearly 30 years in Washington, Sen. Collins should be judged by what she’s done, not what she says.
Collins always reminds us of the federal dollars she brings home. That’s important. But what good is getting money for Maine hospitals while supporting an administration whose policies threaten their financial survival?
Consider her record.
She voted to confirm Robert F. Kennedy Jr., despite his long history of spreading vaccine misinformation. With measles cases surging, she still defends that decision.
She supported Brett Kavanaugh’s confirmation to the Supreme Court, assuring Mainers he respected established precedent. Kavanaugh subsequently helped overturn Roe v. Wade.
Collins often expresses deep concern about Trump’s actions. But concern without meaningful action changes little.
According to an August Bangor Daily News analysis, Collins cast just four decisive votes against Republican-preferred outcomes during Trump’s second administration, through the period examined.
As chair of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee, Collins has the power most senators can only dream of. Why isn’t she using more of it to challenge Trump’s agenda?
Collins has helped Maine communities. No question. But bringing home federal dollars doesn’t excuse the consequences of her national decisions.
Susan Collins doesn’t sound like Donald Trump. But too often, her votes help deliver his agenda.
Maine deserves better.
Michael Towey
Belfast