On Oct. 22, I visited Sen. Susan Collins’ office in the Federal Building in Augusta. This was my first visit, so I was not sure what to expect. What I had hoped to find was support for a problem that I have been having with my application for the Marketplace insurance.

I received a very cool reception by the man in her office. What I felt was indifference and a strong lack of concern on his part. I was told that he too had to purchase an insurance plan in the program but that he was going to wait until later, when things got better. He did not take any information from me (name, address, phone number, etc.) to make any semblance of wanting to help me out.

When I walked into that office, I was frustrated and a little bit angry. When I walked out of that office, I was very frustrated, very angry and very disillusioned.

I had never before encountered a public employee who did not want to help the public. I hope that my experience is not an indication of all help being offered. I have never asked for assistance in the past, but I surely would think twice about asking the future.

Charlene BrousseauManchester


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