Viewed through the lens of the Founders’ expectations, Sen. Susan Collins’ record has been exemplary. Her steady rise to influence in the Senate has placed her at the center of sharply divided parties. Attacked mercilessly, she has remained committed to her principles, frustrating both sides. She focuses on the long term, while partisans react to the immediate political moment. Her contested chairmanship is serving our state and has allowed her to support significant investments — this demonstrates that her focus is both on the moment of need and on the next generations.

Despite the Founders’ intention for the Senate to act as a counterbalance to the more politically impulsive House of Representatives, Sen. Collins’ colleagues in the Senate circle her like wolves for not caving to the current political moment.

I have been inspired by Collins’ leadership in my endeavors and inspired by her vision for the country and for Maine. She is one of the most important members of Congress in an era where Congress did not function: as one of the few sane ones in an era of insanity. That is not surprising, Maine has a long history of offering the nation tough senators who have thick skin, foresight, courage and conviction.

I thank Susan Collins.

Phineas Sprague, Jr.
Cape Elizabeth

Read the letter: centralmaine.com