Dear Edtior:

Power is out of balance in Maine and across the U.S. Tariffs and a war—neither wanted by most Americans—are driving up costs at the grocery store and gas pump. Our rights are under attack, from ICE detentions and threats to reproductive freedom to growing restrictions on a free press.

Maine can help restore checks and balances. The midterms matter.

Step one: elect Troy Jackson to replace Senator Susan Collins, who has enabled federal overreach. As Senate Appropriations Chair, Collins voted 90% with Trump, including decisive votes for a budget bill cutting Medicare and SNAP and for a Supreme Court nominee hostile to Roe.

But Washington is only half the battle. Maine needs a stronger Democratic majority in Augusta to protect our communities and expand affordable access to housing, heating, and healthcare.

Thankfully, experienced, principled candidates are on the ballot across Lincoln County. In my district, we’re fortunate to have two incumbents committed to Maine families: Rep. Wayne Farrin and Sen. Cameron Reny.

Step two: vote Democrat up and down the ballot.

Let’s live up to our Maine motto: Dirigo!

Bridget Mullen

Alna