If not this November, when? | Letter
Maine Voters to Decide on Sen. Susan Collins in 2024 Election
A letter to the editor published in The Press Herald on Monday called for the replacement of incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins. The writer, Joseph Mailey of Auburn, urged voters to consider a new candidate in the November election and criticized Collins’ voting record and health.
Mailey wrote that the Senate race should focus on replacing Collins, citing her support for many of President Donald Trump’s policies. He also mentioned that Collins’ votes on Supreme Court nominations had, in his view, been “disastrous to women.” The letter added that Collins’ age and potential health concerns could make her “unfit” to serve.
“Why wait? Why not this year?” Mailey asked. He warned that voters might “listen to and believe the negative ad campaigns and reelect Collins; give the new guy a chance for six years; or don’t vote for either one — which is legal. Not telling folks how we voted is also legal.”
The letter was signed, “Joseph Mailey – Auburn,” and was posted on the newspaper’s website under the “letter to the editor” tag. No other editorial or editorial board commentary accompanied the submission.
Sen. Collins, a Republican from Maine, has represented the state in the U.S. Senate since 2001. She is 66 years old and has been the subject of national attention for her moderate stances, including voting to confirm Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett and her record on healthcare and environmental issues.
The 2024 election will decide whether Collins will seek a fifth term. Maine voters will have the choice of Collins or any candidates who file to run, as the state’s system allows voters to abstain or select a third-party or write‑in candidate.
Mailey’s letter reflects one viewpoint among many in the state’s political discourse. The Press Herald will continue to publish letters to the editor and other contributions from Maine residents.
