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A week since the election, it’s clear to me that Susan Collins, the reporters and opinion editor of this paper are still looking for excuses outside of her control for her loss, rather than at the consequences of her choices, actions, and lack of political courage. Instead of giving credit to Troy Jackson for a skillful 100-day grassroots campaign that accurately communicated voter concerns or acknowledging his deep legislative experience and strong working class network, all of the focus has been on Collins.
I feel her 30-year record has never been objectively evaluated in comparison with that of other notable Maine or national senators for positive lasting legislative accomplishment or leadership ability. Her 100% voting record is meaningless unless the impact of those votes is considered. There is no Ed Muskie’s Clean Water Act, no George Mitchell as Senate Majority Leader, or Bill Cohen’s brave freshman vote to impeach President Richard Nixon.
Then of course there is Margaret Chase Smith and her Declaration of Conscience. That Collins now claims her huge defeat puts her in the same league, when her lack of political courage is why many former supporters abandoned her, speaks volumes about her idea of her job.
She took an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution and “advise and consent” not just bring home the bacon. Understanding this might have saved her or at least salvaged her legacy.
Judy Bielecki
Belgrade