At some point in our lives, most of us have had our very best motives and actions misconstrued. Many who know Roger Katz bristled over his casual objectification in David Alexander’s misguided letter to the editor.

While I respect Alexander’s right to think as he will, his surfeit acerbity is perhaps not the right tone for an honest defense of Gov. Paul LePage. It certainly does not engender his claim Katz is a “false prophet.”

Decades before he was mayor or senator, Katz had a lengthy record of devoting countless hours to social and civic causes. Labeling his very personal reason for being at the cancer walk as solely “exploiting worthy causes for their own political ends” echoes of an agenda.

Many of us who’ve stood the bedside watch through chemo, radiation and the long goodbye might resent Alexander’s vituperative tirade if we did not feel sympathy. Katz can walk with us anytime.

In Katz’s taking issue with lapses of civility at the Blaine House, he rightfully cited many of governor’s excellent accomplishments, and he recalled Margaret Chase Smith’s admonition. “Republicans,” she said, “have the responsibility of rendering constructive criticism, of clarifying issues and allaying fears by acting as responsible citizens.”

Like most Mainers, I have voted for Republicans, Democrats and independents because I do expect them to exercise informed and independent judgment. It’s a tough, thankless job.

I believe the governor to be an earnest man who’s overcome so much in his past, surely he can master the difference between being “frank” and being “incensed.” I pray for him and wish him well, and I thank God for such men as Roger Katz. He represents the best of men and women of any party.

Ryan Cote

Dresden

Copy the Story Link