In a recently aired segment of “Maine Calling” on MPBN, Gov. Paul LePage claimed to have thrown several legislators out of his office, contending that they were “bribing” him with quid pro quo offers of support for upcoming pieces of legislation. He stated that he was elected to do the people’s business and not cut deals.

Yet it certainly appears that when both houses unanimously passed a five-year window for the Land for Maine’s Future bond issues, the will of the people was strongly voiced. And I seem to recall that he was ransoming these monies, also overwhelming passed by the state’s voters, in exchange for increased timber harvests.

Am I confused, or in his mind is extortion morally superior or different than bribery? Perhaps he will explain the difference to the voters of Maine. Or not.

Michael Conley

Manchester


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