Dear Editor:

On Sunday, close to 200 Democrats gathered at Wiscasset Speedway for a program celebrating our country and its democratic values. The attendees carefully observed the governor’s executive order limiting outside gatherings to no more than 100 people at a time by taking turns being out of their vehicles. They listened to speeches by local and national candidates, stories told by a Maine humorist, and music by several talented Maine-based musicians and groups. It was a joyful celebration, made possible by the work of many volunteers and the generosity of the Jordans, owners of Wiscasset Speedway.

After I returned home from the rally, I read about the procession of hundreds of trucks sporting Trump flags and shooting paintball guns that drove into Portland, Oregon Saturday night. They shot at protesters, drove into crowds, and acted menacingly. This action incited violence, as it was meant to do. Most disturbingly, it was encouraged by our president and those around him.

Lately, I have seen several trucks flying large Trump flags. In fact, a group of them attempted to enter the Speedway during our gathering. Were they attempting to play an immature prank, or are they deliberately choosing to align themselves with the vigilante terrorists popping up around the country?

We Democrats have no interest in disrupting Republican gatherings. We believe that the strength of our good ideas, our honorable candidates, and the care we show for our neighbors and community members speaks for itself. We’ll leave it to the Republicans to tell you what they stand for. 

This is a difficult time for everyone. If you long for peace and find the current political situation too disturbing, I beg you not to give up on the election. There is a major difference between what the parties are offering you. Ours is a hopeful view focused on a future where we all work together.

Your voice is important — don’t let bullies dissuade you from using it. Please be sure to vote, whether absentee (you can request your absentee ballot now), early at your town office, or at the polls on Nov. 3. Your vote is the most powerful tool you have for defeating hate and violence.

Barb Burt

Lincoln County Democratic Committee