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To the Editor;

We are all suffering from the COVID-19 epidemic. Three family members and several friends have contracted the virus but, thankfully, none have died. In Piscataquis County we are grateful to have only one case confirmed by mid-May, as we start to implement Gov. Mills’ gradual reopening plan. We must stay vigilant against a possible resurgence of the virus this summer or fall. Deep thanks to the doctors and all those who are on the front lines fighting this pandemic and to my neighbors who continue to respect the social distancing orders recommended by the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

But on the national level? After initially abdicating responsibility and handing it off to the nation’s governors, President Trump is urging resistance to the very governors who are trying to follow the guidance of the CDC. Meanwhile he brags on the Republican lawsuit which, if it succeeds, will end the ACA and take health insurance away from 20 million Americans during this pandemic which has already killed over 85,000 Americans.  

This is why your vote in the upcoming elections is so important. 

On July 14, we will choose candidates for the U.S. Senate and U.S. Congress. Democrats have the opportunity to choose among several great candidates to run against U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, who has lost her credibility by enabling Trump’s takeover of the once proud GOP.

There is a safe and secure way to act. Call the Maine Secretary of State election office at 207-634-7736 to ask for an absentee ballot (or if you have the Internet use your search function for “Maine State absentee ballot”). I urge you to request your mail-in ballot now. Absentee ballots must be returned to your municipal clerk by 8 p.m. on election day, July 14.

Ben Richmond
Dover-Foxcroft