As a longtime independent voter and firm believer in free speech, I support the right of Bob Rudis to express his views, but found his recent op-ed piece (“Susan Collins’ betrayal of Maine demands accountability,” March 15) to be a prime example of what’s wrong with our public policy discourse these days.

Disagreeing with Sen. Susan Collins’ votes and policy stances is fine but demonizing her isn’t helpful. His language isn’t about policy differences but rather aims to demean and mock her. Look at the words — “moral bankruptcy,” “hollow figurehead,” “impotence,” “bystander,” “betrayal” and “demand … resignation.” This certainly isn’t the way to begin a constructive dialogue.

Lawrence Furbish
Sanford