I was surprised to hear that Sen. Susan Collins announced her support for the SAVE America Act. SAVE America, promoted by President Donald Trump, will make it harder to register and vote in federal elections. 

On the surface, Collins’ stance aligns with her long-standing support for stricter voter ID laws. However, it ignores the clear will of her constituents.

Less than a year ago, Maine voters overwhelmingly rejected Question 1, a referendum that proposed stricter voter identification requirements similar in purpose to those in the SAVE Act. The measure was decisively defeated; Mainers made it clear they preferred to keep the state’s voting system as it is. When Sen. Collins supports federal legislation advancing similar policies, she ignores that decision.

The SAVE Act also raises serious constitutional issues. Requiring documentary proof of citizenship for federal voter registration might go beyond Congress’ constitutional powers and encroach on authority typically held by the states. 

Everyone elected to a federal office takes an oath to support the Constitution and faithfully serve the people they represent. Supporting legislation of questionable constitutionality while ignoring Maine’s vote violates both oaths — those to the Constitution and to the people.

When we go to the polls in November, I hope voters remember Collins’ support of the SAVE America Act and choose someone who truly represents the will of Maine citizens.

Gary Massanek
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