The election season is upon us and it has been called the most important election of our time. Although this refrain is repeated every two or four years, this election is very important to me. I will be voting for the best candidate to represent our state regardless of the effect on party membership in the Senate.

Previously I have had a difficult time supporting candidates in either party, however in this election my choice for senator is an easy call. I am supporting the most qualified candidate; Sen. Susan Collins is the best leader for the country in these dangerous times. 

In meetings I have attended with Sen. Collins, she has demonstrated her command of the topic at hand and her well-reasoned decision-making process. She has voted 10,000 times without missing a vote, a record for any senator. We are fortunate to have such a well-qualified public servant representing us in the United States Senate.

We have a wonderful tradition of leadership in Maine. In my 56 years as a Maine resident, we have elected outstanding senators who have been recognized as effective leaders. They have mirrored the standard of excellence that Margaret Chase Smith exhibited. I am pleased to support Sen. Collins as my senator for six more years.

Ivan Most
Old Orchard Beach

Read the full letter at the Portland Press Herald.