I’m a political junkie.  If the only election in Maine was for a dogcatcher in a hamlet I never heard of, I’d follow the coverage as if it were a congressional race. I appreciate the fervor demonstrated by Mr. Gary Anderson in his support of Graham Platner (“We need to make sure Graham Platner goes to Washington,” Sept. 18). But a guest endorsement, “Maine Voices” or op-ed of this length for any candidate — fully one year before the election — is over the top. 

There are countless candidates for the primaries, and I should hate to see similar endorsements this early. We are being assaulted by TV ads, subtly disguised, but surely “soft” campaign pitches.  Perhaps the campaign committees can each have similar endorsements published, of designated length, starting right after Labor Day — next year.

They could point out their candidate’s strength, possibly without smearing the others; their choice.  By then, current issues will be clearer, or changed; new ones will be available for debate, and voters will be primed for this .  

Politics in our democracy is vital, and participation by “we the people” is its lifeblood.  I commend Mr. Anderson for his op-ed, but please, not this early.

Eric Mihan
Kennebunk