A recent column in the Gazette [“By any means necessary?” June 3] concluded that Susan Collins (R-ME) was the better choice in the Maine Senate race due to one of her opponent’s frequent verbal gaffs, awful behavior and statements.
While Sen. Collins is often viewed as a moderate swing vote, her legislative record shows deep alignment with Donald Trump’s agenda. Analysts note that she voted in line with Trump’s positions 94% to 96% of the time during his first administration.
Her key areas of support include:
Judicial confirmations: Collins has voted to confirm the vast majority of Trump’s judicial nominees. Her most pivotal vote was for Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh in 2018, which permanently shifted the ideological balance of the court which led to the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
Economic policy: She provided a critical “yes” vote for Trump’s signature legislative achievement, the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which significantly lowered corporate tax rates.
Executive and foreign power: Collins has consistently voted to protect executive authority, and has opposed war powers resolutions aimed at curbing unilateral military actions.
Collins’ rare votes against Trump typically occur only when her dissent will not change the outcome — such as voting against Amy Coney Barrett in 2020 when confirmation was already secure. This allows her to maintain a moderate brand at home while reliably delivering for her party on deciding votes.
Who would you trust to restore Democracy in America?
Jamie Elkin
Northampton