In response to Allison Kupfer Poteet’s April 6 op-ed (“Susan Collins has turned her back on women”), no, Susan Collins has not turned her back on women.

As a mother, sister and caregiver for my dear mom in her final months, I find it offensive to suggest that an entire gender’s concerns can be reduced to a single issue. Sen. Collins has consistently delivered real results on issues that matter most to Maine women, such as caregiving, healthcare and economic security.

Collins has led bipartisan efforts on paid family leave, helping advance solutions for working women caring for children or aging parents. She co-authored the reauthorization of the Older Americans Act, strengthening programs like Meals on Wheels and caregiver supports that families rely on every day. She also authored the Senior Safe Act, protecting older Americans, including women, from financial exploitation.

On healthcare, Sen. Collins has worked across party lines to stabilize the Affordable Care Act, preventing premium spikes and preserving coverage for Maine families. She has supported efforts to lower prescription drug costs, including life-saving insulin for people living with diabetes.

She has long supported reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act, ensuring survivors have access to critical protections and services.

Reasonable people may disagree on individual votes. But ignoring Collins’ long record of advocacy and results is not accurate or fair. Maine women deserve more than political rhetoric. They deserve results and Sen. Collins delivers.

Jayne Crosby Giles
Belfast