Republican Sen. Susan Collins: ‘Why I Can’t Support Trump’

Authors Columns S.H. Blannelberry

Editor’s note: The following is an op-ed from Republican Sen. Susan Collins who represents Maine. It appeared in The Washington Post on Monday.  It’s being syndicated here because it could mark a tipping point in the 2016 presidential election.  That is, due to the binary nature of this election, a non-Trump vote in November is, indeed, a vote for Hillary. By refusing to vote for Tump, Collins is effectively voting for Hillary even if she doesn’t cast a ballot.  Therefore, if more Republicans — including 50 national security “experts” — continue to jump on this Never Trump train they are by default electing Hillary Clinton.  As bad as Trump may appear to many, he is not as bad as “crooked” Hillary Clinton.  Even true lefties — not of the neoliberal variety — recognize how bad a Hillary administration would be for America.  Some food for thought as election day approaches.    

Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine speaks during a news conference on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, June 21, 2016. (Evan Vucci/AP)

Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine speaks during a news conference on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, June 21, 2016. (Evan Vucci/AP)

I will not be voting for Donald Trump for president. This is not a decision I make lightly, for I am a lifelong Republican. But Donald Trump does not reflect historical Republican values nor the inclusive approach to governing that is critical to healing the divisions in our country.

When the primary season started, it soon became apparent that, much like Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Mr. Trump was connecting with many Americans who felt that their voices were not being heard in Washington and who were tired of political correctness. But rejecting the conventions of political correctness is different from showing complete disregard for common decency. Mr. Trump did not stop with shedding the stilted campaign dialogue that often frustrates voters. Instead, he opted for a constant stream of denigrating comments, including demeaning Sen. John McCain’s (R-Ariz.) heroic military service and repeatedly insulting Fox News host Megyn Kelly.

With the passage of time, I have become increasingly dismayed by his constant stream of cruel comments and his inability to admit error or apologize. But it was his attacks directed at people who could not respond on an equal footing — either because they do not share his power or stature or because professional responsibility precluded them from engaging at such a level — that revealed Mr. Trump as unworthy of being our president.

My conclusion about Mr. Trump’s unsuitability for office is based on his disregard for the precept of treating others with respect, an idea that should transcend politics. Instead, he opts to mock the vulnerable and inflame prejudices by attacking ethnic and religious minorities. Three incidents in particular have led me to the inescapable conclusion that Mr. Trump lacks the temperament, self-discipline and judgment required to be president.

The first was his mocking of a reporter with disabilities, a shocking display that did not receive the scrutiny it deserved. I kept expecting Mr. Trump to apologize, at least privately, but he did not, instead denying that he had done what seemed undeniable to anyone who watched the video. At the time, I hoped that this was a terrible lapse, not a pattern of abuse.

The second was Mr. Trump’s repeated insistence that Gonzalo Curiel, a federal judge born and raised in Indiana, could not rule fairly in a case involving Trump University because of his Mexican heritage. For Mr. Trump to insist that Judge Curiel would be biased because of his ethnicity demonstrated a profound lack of respect not only for the judge but also for our constitutional separation of powers, the very foundation of our form of government. Again, I waited in vain for Mr. Trump to retract his words.

Third was Donald Trump’s criticism of the grieving parents of Army Capt. Humayun Khan, who was killed in Iraq. It is inconceivable that anyone, much less a presidential candidate, would attack two Gold Star parents. Rather than honoring their sacrifice and recognizing their pain, Mr. Trump disparaged the religion of the family of an American hero. And once again, he proved incapable of apologizing, of saying he was wrong.

I am also deeply concerned that Mr. Trump’s lack of self-restraint and his barrage of ill-informed comments would make an already perilous world even more so. It is reckless for a presidential candidate to publicly raise doubts about honoring treaty commitments with our allies. Mr. Trump’s tendency to lash out when challenged further escalates the possibility of disputes spinning dangerously out of control.

I had hoped that we would see a “new” Donald Trump as a general-election candidate — one who would focus on jobs and the economy, tone down his rhetoric, develop more thoughtful policies and, yes, apologize for ill-tempered rants. But the unpleasant reality that I have had to accept is that there will be no “new” Donald Trump, just the same candidate who will slash and burn and trample anything and anyone he perceives as being in his way or an easy scapegoat. Regrettably, his essential character appears to be fixed, and he seems incapable of change or growth.

At the same time, I realize that Mr. Trump’s success reflects profound discontent in this country, particularly among those who feel left behind by an unbalanced economy and who wonder whether their children will have a better life than their parents. As we have seen with the dissatisfaction with both major- party nominees — neither of whom I support — these passions are real and the public will demand action.

Some will say that as a Republican I have an obligation to support my party’s nominee. I have thought long and hard about that, for being a Republican is part of what defines me as a person. I revere the history of my party, most particularly the value it has always placed on the worth and dignity of the individual, and I will continue to work across the country for Republican candidates. It is because of Mr. Trump’s inability and unwillingness to honor that legacy that I am unable to support his candidacy.

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  • daisay September 12, 2016, 10:05 pm

    Susan Collins is the poster child for why we need term limits for ALL politician’s !

  • Patriot August 14, 2016, 7:25 pm

    Sen. Susan Collins is worse than a damn fool idiot democrat. If the people of Maine have any common sense at all, they will absolutely vote her OUT OF OFFICE in the next election. She is definitely a small minded idiot to do something to help the sorry bitch Hellary who has done so much to hurt the U.S. by being such a sorry excuse for a Secretary of State. She was behind many actions that were both stupid and illegal, such as the private email server and making no effort whatsoever to help the ambassador and 3 assistants who were killed in Libya. She has been a blatant liar in every stupid and illegal action she has done and, using her influence with idiot democrat politicians in the beuracracy, she has not been held accountable. Apparently, Susan Collins wants to be a member of the same group of asinine democrat idiots as Obama, Clintons Hellary and Billy, Pelosi, Feinstein, Boxer, Schumer, Brown, Bloomberg, Healey, Harry Reid and other people of the same ilk. Why are these idiots elected?

  • Gil Gagnon August 14, 2016, 7:15 pm

    I used to like and respect you as a leader, but now I see you as a selfish person who is more interested in
    seeing a politically correct bitch become President than a man who has the guts to say it like it is.Swallow your
    pride and stop hurting those of us who believe in Donald Trump.

  • Glenn61 August 14, 2016, 8:12 am

    RINO Bitch….!

  • Todd Jaffe August 14, 2016, 6:07 am

    Welcome to the end of the republic folks. Unless we as Republicans band together and replace these turncoat republicans with new republicans, who will support the GOP Presidential candidate, even if it were a pet rock, we will hand 5, yes FIVE SUPREME COURT Judgeships over to the liberals. If Senator Collins is fine with that then her constituents need to find someone to replace her and fast, and do an immediate recall. ACT NOW PEOPLE or PAY THE PRICE. This country cannot withstand even 2 more years of Democratic leadership. We have over 50% of the US dollars overseas now. If that hits 66% (estimate if Hillary elected is by August of 2017) the country will financially collapse.Get rid of traitors or RINO’s, too senile to see the danger of not supporting Trump.

  • James August 13, 2016, 9:55 pm

    Americans are tired of Republicans who just sit there with their thumbs…
    The coarseness of Trump is refreshing in a flip them the bird sort of way.
    The one who occupies the office of the President of the United States is an embarasssssment to all thinking people. To support the woman who seeks to sell out this country even more by not voting for Trump is a very sad thing when you realize HE is the nominee for the Republican party.

  • Bobby Taber August 13, 2016, 7:10 pm

    With all due respect, Senator, go piss up a rope. Career politicians are what is wrong with Washington DC, and we need to shake things up. Mr. Trump is not my ideal candidate but I’m willing to support someone who is not afraid of ruffling your and every other politician’s feathers. Just shut the hell up and continue to think you’re doing your job until the good people of your state vote in a real person and not a plastic replica.

  • Scott McLean August 13, 2016, 1:27 pm

    Gary Johnson should get a shot. Help him at least get invited to the debates by supporting him. We wont just take votes from Trump. I know a lot of democrats (regrettably), who don’t want to vote for HC because of how crooked she is.

    • Carl Amato August 16, 2016, 2:20 am

      Check out a man by the name of Evan McMullen. He’s running as an independent and from what I have heard from him sounds like the most sensible conservative of the entire lot. I just wish that he would have gotten in the race sooner.

  • gary August 13, 2016, 10:45 am

    Looks like anyone Rino That likes LYEIN’ BILLARY! People vote her out!!!!!!!!!!!!! Get rid of this DEMO trash

  • David Christensen August 13, 2016, 1:51 am

    Susan Collins has been a RINO here entire career – check her voting record.

    People, it is time to realize this is not about Trump – It is about AMERICA and keeping Hillary from picking the Supreme Court and Second Amendment trashing. Trump, at his worst would be 4 years…. Progressive Liberal Hillary’s Supreme Court would be for AT LEAST 40. Do you really want to do that to your kids and grandkids?

    IT’S ABOUT AMERICA!

  • leland league August 12, 2016, 11:50 pm

    To me this whining Sen. Susan Collins and sixty more republicans are trying to cover their weak assess just to keep their jobs
    They all know the political machine that includes both parties will collapse if someone steps in and won’t hide all of their twisted dealings and manipulations that keep them. In power. That includes Clintons and Bushes . Obama is just clueless and they all look at him as there tar baby to use as they need. They go to Washington broke and come out loaded , that ought to tell you their up there to line their pockets and if Trump gets there he doesn’t need he money and can’t be bought and he will expose them all.

  • Lee August 12, 2016, 11:13 pm

    if you can’t support Trump, who can you support. I think you are trying to split the Republican vote and elect Clinton.

  • Dan Durrett August 12, 2016, 5:51 pm

    There is another option. The Libertarian has a candidate for President and Vice-President. We are not limited to Democrat or Republican.

    The Libertarian Party has never received enough votes to participate in presidential or vice-presidential debates because no one has noticed them. It’s time to notice them.

    • David Christensen August 13, 2016, 1:57 am

      Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it….

      ‘Remember when Ross Perot ran for President because Bush wasn’t QUITE what we wanted? That’s how we got Clintons in the White House in the first place!!!

      How many people didn’t vote and Obama got elected for the first term?
      Remember when Romney wasn’t QUITE what we wanted? That’s how we got Obama for a second term…. How’s that working for you?

      People, it is time to realize this is not about Trump – It is about AMERICA and keeping Hillary from picking the Supreme Court and Second Amendment trashing.

      • jim August 13, 2016, 9:23 am

        Voting for the lesser of two evils hasn’t gotten us anywhere except much farther down the slippery slope.

        That said, I’m a life long libertarian and I’ve never voted for a presidential candidate from either major party before, but Gary Johnson seems to have some issues … and at least Trump doesn’t seem like he’s interested in the continued sabre-rattling against China and Russia.

        I probably disagree with 50% of his positions, but it’s also so damned refreshing to have someone running that speaks his politically incorrect mind. I’m tired of this crap.

    • Carl August 13, 2016, 4:13 am

      I’d love to see a libertarian elected but is not going to happen, at this point any vote for anyone other than trump is a vote for Clinton. Dividing Trump supporters is the most damaging obvious strategy clinton can use. You sure look to me as one of those liberals lurking around here

    • Joe McHugh August 13, 2016, 6:33 am

      Senator Susan Collins is only doing what she has always done. She blasts the Republican initiative or candidate to get the Democrat voters in Maine to vote for her. She knows that the Republican voters in Maine have to support her. She is the ultimate RINO.

      She used to share the RINO badge with Senator Olympia Snow, also from Maine, but Senator Snow recently retired.

      The real problem? The voters in Maine are mainly liberal and they get the best of both worlds in Republican and Democrat politics. Collins is a Democrat in a Republican’s garb.

      Liberals and RINOs lie EVERY time they talk! It’s the only way to make socialism look good.

  • Varmint August 12, 2016, 5:07 pm

    A true dimwit like so many RINO’s in our congress, lady if you don’t get your sh*t together and do the right thing we could end up with the next administration ruining what’s left of this country, and Hitlary will do exactly that! If you are a republican like you say you are, and I’m a life long active worker for the party myself you CANNOT stand there and tell me you are for our party with this stance, get smart and do it NOW!

  • David Brown August 12, 2016, 5:01 pm

    If you cant support the person who your party picked as it’s candidate, then perhaps you should join another party.
    Because if Hillary gets elected,
    I will blame you and every other RINO who didn’t do everything in their power to defeat her.

  • Don Richardson August 12, 2016, 4:37 pm

    This woman, Susan C., has always been the definition of RINO. She has supported practically every Democrat initiative since she first got elected. I wonder who the folks are in her district who voter for a ‘Republican’ that has values which are the exact opposite of Republican values, who seems to idolize Karl Marx, and is the opposite of Patrick Henry.
    Everybody is different and everyone is entitled to an opinion, but Susan C. supports tyranny.
    I support individual liberties, individual responsibility and the right to bear arms. Which side are you on?

  • rick August 12, 2016, 3:38 pm

    what you think doesn’t matter what the voters want is what matters .Every republican politician should support the people’s nominee

  • John August 12, 2016, 3:29 pm

    Time for her to retire.

  • Michael August 12, 2016, 3:25 pm

    Remember when they needed one more vote to insure Obamacare? It was the senator from Maine who gave them the big win. No surprise she along with her crooked counterparts would oppose anyone from the outside upsetting their apple cart of ill gotten gains. Trump will be the first real chance we have to abolish the career politician, which has been like a locust plague to our land. If he installed term limits and nothing else I would call it a win for the American people.

  • Campbell A King August 12, 2016, 3:07 pm

    Is she buddy buddy with Pocahontis ?

  • Bisley August 12, 2016, 2:28 pm

    Susan Collins is a leftist and a moron — her opinion has no value. She’s right that Trump isn’t qualified to be president, but Hillary is much more unqualified. We have a choice between a lousy president, and a disastrous one — I’ll take the lesser evil (who will hopefully do less damage to the country), Trump.

  • Boz August 12, 2016, 1:08 pm

    Any vote NOT for Trump IS a vote for Hillary. Fact.

  • Matt498 August 12, 2016, 12:53 pm

    Another politician fearful that they will lose their political entitlements. Another scum throwing us to the Clinton and DNC wolves so they can keep their cushy tax payer job. She knows better than anyone that a non vote is a vote for Clinton.

  • Alan Jonas August 12, 2016, 12:46 pm

    It is difficult for me to believe or understand how someone who hold a Republican Office can take a position against the only person who is running against the Criminal Hillary who should be handcuffed and in prison. What twisted and blind sort of logic does this person presume to have to give the Hateful Hillary and the Clinton Organized Crime family a chance at winning the Presidency of this country and causing even more destruction than Obama has already committed. This senator should be removed/recalled from her Senatorial Position Immediately if not sooner. Those people who did not vote or sat home out of some misplaced sense of principles is why Obama was re-elected for a second term, don’t let this become a THIRD OBAMA LEGACY TERM. These Senators like Susan and anyone else who is a self described Republican/Conservative should be removed immediately from office.

  • Joseph Burke August 12, 2016, 12:43 pm

    We will just rename her to “See ya later Sue” Vote her out, like him or not Trump is the choice of the people. Politicians that don’t support the people’s choice need to be replaced by those that follow the will of the people and not the politics as usual crowd and the lobbyists.

  • Jeremiah August 12, 2016, 12:39 pm

    Poor Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine – she’d rather vote for a multiple, unindicted felon, liar, cheater, stock-futures racketeer, false foundation fund fraudster, governmental-trough-sucker and all around disingenuous nabob than vote for a solid family man who’s biggest crime has been nothing more than employing tens of thousands of people and making money the old fashioned way, by actually earning it as opposed to the Klintoon Crime Family money laundering schemes.

    Funny how the dems can create buckets of detritus and make them smell like roses!

  • Larry Mandrell August 12, 2016, 12:02 pm

    Another member of the DC, country club, Mam people like you are the reason Trump won the Nomination,
    we American people want you and your mentality gone from office!

  • William Yarbrough August 12, 2016, 11:55 am

    When one watches Susan “try” to speak, one is struck with the opinion that what she is “trying” to say deserves no serious contemplation. The choice is between the unknown Trump or the communist, gun-grabbing Hillary. With the unknown Trump, Liberty has a chance. I choose Liberty.

  • Kevin Titus August 12, 2016, 11:35 am

    If this Republican does not vote /and support Trump.then she should be considered a traitor and fool and must be removed from office. What is wrong with these supposed/traitorous Republicans? Trump won,that means America wants him in the White House to clean house,something the traitors do not want! Well it is time to change this behaviour ,now and forever,America,American’s deserve much better!!! God help us!

  • DG August 12, 2016, 11:20 am

    Collins is a RINO.. She votes with the democrats most the time! Of course she won’t support someone who won’t be politically correct or try to limit US.

    She need’s to be replaced by someone who will support and defend the Constitution and our Rights. That will vote against gun control, against abortion, against more restrictions on our Freedoms.

    We need a President who will do the same!

    NO HILLARY!!!

  • egghead August 12, 2016, 10:48 am

    how stupid, with out change how would the political parties become the cushy, perk laddened job they have become? the high paying do nothing “welfare: jobs they have become that the lame slackards seek? no dearie you want to keep the big doller paydays that you are afraid trump is going to stop. that is why you are willing to sell out the country………………………….. all for the sake of your pocketbook. don’t try to deny it. you know some of us know what is in your heart and that we do not think it is America’s best interests. preserving the democracy should be the most important thing. without a ship we all drown. think abou that.

    • Mike Tierney August 12, 2016, 11:31 am

      The drivel from her and all the others has nothing to do with improving America. None of them address the issues of corporate welfare and farm welfare. Banging on Benghazi is a dead horse issue. The ambassador was responsible for his predicament by thinking he was making progress with the war lords and therefore shouldn’t have a large security force. Every other country’s staff left Benghazi every night. He wanted to stay to show his solidarity. Nice idea but too dangerous a place where every house has a few guns and just needs a slight push to start the crazies shooting.
      It would be great if Trump said something meaningful instead of stupid comments about 2nd Amendment and ISIS. Deal with issues that are substantive, not just inciting.

  • Chuck August 12, 2016, 10:41 am

    Who does this woman believe she is? That she is above any type reproach for her actions? Trump is not the ideal candidate but at least he is not afraid to speak his mind or say what he believes. I for one find that to be somewhat refreshing! A political candidate that may or may not speak the truth for all but not afraid to speak non the less!
    As a veteran, the first lesson taught to any recruit,”You do not have to respect the man, but you do have to respect his rank”!
    It is now time for the entire GOP to start respecting the rank! You do not have to like, love or associate with the guy, but for now, he has the rank of being the GOP candidate! Time to man up you bunch of whinney ass bastards!!

  • Charlie Porter August 12, 2016, 10:35 am

    If not supporting Trump the Republican.Then you know who she is supporting.She ANT NO REPUBLICAN! She should resign.

  • Larry August 12, 2016, 10:32 am

    She can’t support Trump because she is a wishy washy middle of the road Rino. Even God hates those “who are neither hot nor cold”. Vote her out of office & then shun her.

  • Tripwire August 12, 2016, 10:32 am

    Collins is a RINO, always has been, she always votes with the Democreeps, anything she says is BS, she wouldn’t vote for any Repub, the people of Maine are stupid to keeping her in office.

  • Billy August 12, 2016, 10:22 am

    Thank you Senator Collins! We now know where your heart lies! Hope you and Hillary enjoy your time together!!

  • Mike the Knife August 12, 2016, 9:57 am

    She Sen. Collins doesn’t have an honest bone in her body.
    Is she really listening to all of the BS Hillary says she is going to continue to do ?
    We won’t have an America anymore.
    2nd Amendment,open borders Supreme Court Justices, Trillions National debt.dwindling armed forces.
    Sen.Collins sit in a chair and place your head between you legs and kiss your ass and America goodbye!

  • Gus August 12, 2016, 9:42 am

    Sen. Collins can called herself goddess of the Republican Party if she wants but her actions speak louder than words. I read a lot of “I” and “my” in her letters which shows me that she is just thinking about herself when she wrote the letter not the American people as is the case with selfish politicians. In 2012 I voted for Romney. He wasn’t my choice for President but he represented my party’s views which are what I believe. Romney could have said every word that Trump has said and I would have still voted for him. Not voting for your party’s candidate helps the opposition, so it doesn’t matters how much you want to explain why you won’t support your party’s nominee (which was voted by the majority), your actions hurt your own party and the rest of the party members. The next President will choose the direction of the Supreme Court and make or brake our economy. Do you think is time to think about “I” and “my” or about “We” and “Us”?

  • Pontificant August 12, 2016, 9:20 am

    Add her name to the list and move along…

  • Goose August 12, 2016, 9:19 am

    What a deal . These so-called republican/conservatives, that are just helping Hillary get in office turn my stomach. She, like so many others , needs to put on her big girl panties and get behind what the people want. We need a bunch of “Don’s” to get into Washington and straighten this country out from the freaking shape we’re in.

  • Michael August 12, 2016, 9:17 am

    Susan Collins may be a Republican but she is not and never has been conservative, a description that fits +90% of those we generally describe as Republican leaders. Like those leaders the only “historical Republican values” she supports, which are historical only if your history is limited to 20 years or so, are bigger government, open borders, and no limits on legal immigration for those who cannot just sneak across the border. In other words she favors whatever the chamber of commerce and deep pockets donors favor.

  • mark August 12, 2016, 9:00 am

    Susan Collins has always been a fringe republican. This should come as no surprise. She would rather be a non-voter , thereby not nullifying one of Clinton’s voters than stand with the people that made Trump a candidate.
    I think the majority of these type republicans are hedging their bets and some are looking to elect a women from whom favors can be traded for money.

  • Kirk Schlup August 12, 2016, 8:59 am

    If Senator Crybaby had been doing her job we wouldn’t be in this mess. Its amazing that she doesn’t understand that its all about the Supreme Court and the Constitution – all this other crap is meaningless in comparison. Give the Democrats another 4 years and they will alter the Supreme Court in a way that will set us on a path that we can’t recover from, which will lead to a Soviet style government that wants, and can, control every aspect of your life. We saw how well that worked! Senator Collins is just another self-indulgent politician whose number one concern is protecting her job, shame on her.

  • frank August 12, 2016, 8:50 am

    All of them are concerned for their pockets not our Country! She should go f&^% herself!!

  • Bill Tucker August 12, 2016, 8:48 am

    Her comments about Donald Trump are right out of the Democrat Party play book. So many distortions. This evil woman demonstrates why America so desperately needs Donald Trump.

  • Jay August 12, 2016, 8:45 am

    Her and other republicans are only cutting all of our throats! Her responses is exactly what Trump meant by the whole system being rigged! They know full well that not voting for Trump, is giving the election to hillary, we can not let that happen weather we like Trump or not! They can not see or even look past the noses on their faces of what can be done! All of them should be pushing hard and going all out to get Trump elected, just to keep hillary out and get the next Justice appointed. If Trump does a bunch of stupid crap and tries to over reach his authority like obama has, guess what, he’s white and wont get away with it because he is not the PC king like obama and they’ll give him a boot and impeach him then Pence is president!

  • Charles Kimberl August 12, 2016, 8:43 am

    Lady, I’ve been following your BS forever and a ‘lifelong Republican’ you are not. You don’t even qualify as a RINO. You are nothing more than a tool for the left. You can go straight to hell as far as I am concerned.

  • Ed August 12, 2016, 8:18 am

    She’s been in politics how long? So she is partly responsible for our country going to hell. Our ambassadors are being murdered and embassy overrun. Our country is going bankrupt and people can’t get a job. She can’t vote Trump because he’s calling her out for the lousy job she’s been doing and the idiot that she is. She is so full of bs. She’s more concerned about Trumps words to a reporter than the prospects of a criminal becoming president and the country going to hell all the more certain.

    • Tommie Thompson August 12, 2016, 8:46 am

      Completely agree with everything you said.
      While Trump would not be my ideal choice, Hillary will destroy what’s left of this country. She’ll sell it off to the highest bidder. Finish trashing the Constitution that Obama bin Golfin’ started. From a Pothead to a Cocaine Dealer, the turds have been really picking up speed as they come barreling down on us!
      God help us!

  • Mike Stroven August 12, 2016, 8:15 am

    Susan Collins needs to be replaced ASAP! She’s no conservative, and her record of going to bat for liberals is infuriating.

  • Ron Stidham August 12, 2016, 8:07 am

    I’m sure you have all heard the phrase, cant we all just get along. Hell No! Trump may be a asshole, but at least he has some balls. We as a country need Balls now, not later. He may be construed as a idiot. but has made it to where he is by having extremely smart and talented people around him. Is he a political person, no he is not. He is a business man to the core, that is not a easy thing to do either. Hillary wants what Hillary wants, all she can get! If that means the American public has to be denied their freedom-so be it. All the Hillary voters need to see the 1 hour documentary-CLINTON CASH, EVERYTHING IS FOR SALE. It will open your eyes! Coruption at the highest level!!! Like Trump or Hate him. Watch the video, and then make heed with your vote. I am voteing Trump!!!

  • G August 12, 2016, 8:06 am

    She is part of the “Royal Family” politicians have created for themselves. They do not treat themselves like those they represent! Look at the life long benefits- retirement plan, medical that is different than what they put on the people. As a nation we are broke buy they do not consider cutting their royal plans only those of the people. They never paid for any of the life long massive benefits they put on themselves. What a rip off. No they do not want some outsider that might make them have the same plans, retirement medical and the like as we have. If they did we would see the social security repaired as well as other programs esp for our vets!

    • JC August 12, 2016, 2:18 pm

      That’s it in a nutshell and my wife and I are both vets: “life long benefits- retirement plan, medical that is different than what they put on the people. As a nation we are broke buy they do not consider cutting their royal plans only those of the people. They never paid for any of the life long massive benefits they put on themselves. What a rip off. No they do not want some outsider that might make them have the same plans, retirement medical and the like as we have. If they did we would see the social security repaired as well as other programs esp for our vets!

  • BigC August 12, 2016, 7:56 am

    Well Susan, there’s one reason Conservatives can’t support you; you’re a myopic IDIOT!!!!!

  • King Paris August 12, 2016, 7:44 am

    Get over it, you fool. A vote not cast for Trump is a vote for the worst politician imaginable in HC. Her presidency will affect America for 30-40 years after she stacks the deck with liberal Dems on the Supreme Court who will continue with Obama’s weak policies, admit countless un-vetted refugees, future welfare recipients, and possible terrorists. This could further weaken and even ruin the nation as we know it. And how it will affect our Second Amendment rights, who can say? Never Hillary! Vote Trump.

  • Thom Raines August 12, 2016, 7:40 am

    I have a deep and abiding respect for our Senator Susan Collins. However I believe the that Senator Collins fails to recognize the this election is not a “pillow fight”. We, as Republicans, are in a fight for the very values that have sustained and protected our country and even defined it. Indeed the Demoncratic agenda for the last eight years, and one that will be continued by Hillary, has been to rob America of its wealth and re-distribute that wealth such that America, and its values, will no longer represent a model of a free society. Trumps “wild west”, “Gen. Patton” style retoric is hard to take much of the time. However we, as Republicans, must absolutly change the climate of Washington. Trump will represent to the world, and our nation, a “new sheriff in town” model that we desperately need to maintain our roll as a model of a free economy. I would recommend Dinesh D’Souzas’ “The secret agenda of the Demoncratic Party” and “Hillary’s America” available on YouTube.

  • Ray Henderson August 12, 2016, 7:30 am

    Politically correct rinos are the very reason we are in the condition we’re in. Trump has captured the minds of millions of conservatives who have been ignored by weak sisters like John Boehner and John McCain. America must get past political correctness to survive as a free nation. Forget this rino… Shun her and vote her out so we can remain free and strong. Trump has my support.

  • jim August 12, 2016, 7:10 am

    There have been divisions within the Republican party for some time (always?). These defectors are going to scuttle the election out of spite and the sense that they feel they are losing power. This is a Yuge mistake. What is that we always hear about bad laws? Work within the system for change? Maybe it isn’t that Trump doesn’t represent conservatives and the R-party, but that the R’s haven’t represented their members.
    These “Republicans” should either get behind the candidate or just outright switch affiliations; a much more honest choice since they are not representing the majority of their Republican constituency which has brought Trump to the candidacy.
    No candidate is going to be perfect. Isn’t going to happen, but handing the election to Hillary is a dire mistake. Hopefully this senator, and others will find themselves elected out of office if they can’t seem to find the guts to represent their voters.

    • Michael Conatser August 12, 2016, 8:09 am

      I agree

    • Bill Tucker August 12, 2016, 8:56 am

      Over and over again “conservatives” get to Washington, DC and then quickly evolve into weak, cowardly, establishment Republicans. I am tired of failed conservatism. Conservatives now see “constitutional rights” for illegal aliens and for anyone who wants to invade borders. The future of liberty in the United States rests in America First nationalism.

      The future is nationalism, not conservatism.

  • Robert kaiser August 12, 2016, 6:40 am

    All I know !
    all of them are corrupt, yes all !!!!!!
    The very very few that aren’t, are guilty by association, for which, letting them get away with it,
    half the people that run for office, talk bout it corruption, but when they get in the good boys club, they become one,
    Nevertheless , Republican, Demarcates, they are not going to help us !!!!!!
    Bankers, Big business, and greed going to win !!!!!!!!!
    Leave us behind, a man could make alot of
    Money, by putting the
    Constitution, and the Bill of Rights on toilet paper, cus that’s what there doing,!!!!!!!!
    Clint Eastwood got it right, the generation of pussy!!!!!!!!!!!!
    JFK said, pain is temporary, crying is forever ,
    Further more, Muslims that come here, pledge allegiance to the flag, one nation under God, with that said, they denounce god, so they lie, from the start,
    so how can they be American,
    kid now days don’t know shit,
    Like Hank Hill said,
    If all the TV you watch is mtv, you don’t deserve to vote !!!!!!!!!!!
    If American would stop being greedy,
    and didn’t spend any money that made
    sells tax , for a week or so, they would ho broke, they wast so much money so fast, they would get the hint,
    But that not going to happen,
    Almost everyone are greedy, self centered,
    so welcome to Hell, the front door is wide open !!

  • Louis Bethel August 12, 2016, 6:22 am

    What a bag of wind.
    What a career politician.
    She should be the next person voted out.
    Does Trump say the politically right things, no he does not.
    But does he sit there like this worthless piece of tax waste and agree with Democrats, no he does not.
    The Republican Perty departed from it’s reason for being several years ago.
    I would like to leave that party, but they left me first.
    All we have left is Trump.

  • Robby August 12, 2016, 6:20 am

    Any representative elected as a Republican needs to support the peoples choice for presidential nomonee irregardless of personal considerations.The goal is defeat the opponent and if you fail to do what clearly the people want , as in Trumps overwhelming votes then you should resign period

    • Michael Conatser August 12, 2016, 8:11 am

      You should Quit your job , because it’s clear this is your personal agenda your constituents

    • Michael Conatser August 12, 2016, 8:13 am

      You should Quit your job , because it\’s clear this is your personal agenda your constituents

  • Miles August 12, 2016, 6:14 am

    All i know is trump seems way different than the same ole same ole. I do not like alot of his antic but the same ole aint been working for a good while now and the change is welcome.maybe he truely loves this country wants what is best for americans and our Constitution. Either way it cant be worse than hillary and just maybe hes exactly what we beed right now and things get on the right trck only time will tell until then im never hillary all the way

  • Russell Jones August 12, 2016, 6:12 am

    Susan Collins is just another fat cat politician sucking at the test of the deep state. Her bread is buttered by the establishment and she fears if Trump is elected it might be the end of her and the other RINO shills. The Republican Party needs to be reorganized and a two-party system reestablished. They can get in unison to complain about Trump but have done nothing except march in lock step with Obama while pandering their constituents with rhetoric.

  • James Green August 12, 2016, 4:36 am

    Then the Senator from Maine will be guilty of helping Hillary to become our new Monarch. And I take serious issue with that! Trump may not be what some consider to be perfect candidate… but he is vastly better than Clinton. And Conservatives across the nation better wake up and realize what they are doing by not supporting the official GOP nominee. We simply must stop Hillary! It’s imperative to our survival as a republic!

  • DRAINO August 11, 2016, 10:33 am

    Yes, it is specifically the “never Trumpers” fault, and whoever doesn’t go and vote Republican in this election, if Hitlary wins. The downfall of our country, our freedoms and loss our firearms will be on their heads. For the sake of being stuck in the political PC quagmire. I don’t want a politician in the head office!!! I want someone who will go in and clean out the politicians who have corrupted our government. And if a few heads get cracked along the way…..so be it!!!! This woman politician can call herself whatever she wants…..it is obvious what she is…..a stuck-up snob who thinks she is too high-brow for America. Like many of the current Republican leadership. By being spineless turds, they have gotten us to this point. The spineless turd politicians have to be expelled!!!

  • clay martin August 10, 2016, 3:59 pm

    The good Senator here, for lack of a better term, is a weak sister. And this nation needs strong leadership. I haven’t looked at the Maine primary, but I hope this costs her her seat. Like Trump or hate him, it beats the pants off of Hillary and the Clinton Crime family

  • Taxx73 August 9, 2016, 4:52 pm

    I have one word for this \”person\”-RINO. LEAVE OUR RIGHTS ALONE!!!!!

  • Aaron August 9, 2016, 12:28 pm

    Hillary is actively supporting terrorists.

    A vote for her is a vote to have the women in your life raped and subjugated to slavery. It’s that simple thanks to Hillary’s own admissions.

  • JAQUE BAUER August 9, 2016, 11:28 am

    This sorry excuse is not a Republican, she is a traitor Communist. She votes like a Communist, thinks like a Communist, and speaks like a Communist. Communists are filthy evil beings who are masters of deceit, expert liars, and traitors. Collins fits the profile of a Communist perfectly. She should be recalled, and banished from the Republican party.

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