The state of Maine (Gov. Mills) has announced that, effective January 2026, the state tax on cigars will increase from 42.5% to 75% while the state tax for marijuana will increase from 10% to 14% percent. In effect, the state of Maine has chosen to promote marijuana over cigars. This will ensure that Maine cigar […]
Letters to the Editor
Letters to the editor of the Kennebec Journal and Morning Sentinel.
Maine State Library not victimized as suggested | Letter
In response to the column by Douglas Rooks titled “Trump’s goal of an ignorant electorate is coming together in textbook fashion,” published Aug. 7, I appreciate that the author recognizes and values the strong services, access to information and professional staff at the Maine State Library (MSL). The original column, however, contained several factual errors […]
Letter writer should rethink Question 1 stance | Letter
I am responding to a letter in the Aug. 1 paper (“Voter ID will keep Maine elections secure“). I wonder if the writer really understands what he is writing about. The voter ID initiative, Question 1 on the ballot this November, outlines exactly why it will not restore trust and confidence in our elections because […]
Letter writer should rethink Question 1 stance | Letter
I am responding to a letter in the Aug. 1 paper (“Voter ID will keep Maine elections secure“). I wonder if the writer really understands what he is writing about. The voter ID initiative, Question 1 on the ballot this November, outlines exactly why it will not restore trust and confidence in our elections because […]
The sad story of Jamie’s Pond | Letter
On July 26, 2016, I sent a letter to the Kennebec Journal objecting to the tree harvest at Jamie’s Pond Wildlife Management Area. After the letter I met with Chandler Woodcock, commissioner for Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. He listened to my concerns, and was very charming, but he told me that the logging operation would […]
Neither Susan Collins nor Angus King are protecting Maine interests | Letter
Recent votes have gravely disappointed me.
Voter ID requirement will not exclude Maine voters | Letter
Mainers spoke clearly when they signed the petition to bring forward voter ID requirements for Maine. The sheer volume of signatures that were collected demonstrates that Maine people want this. Thirty-six states have voter ID laws. It is a clear and common-sense way to ensure the integrity of our elections. When traveling, I often want […]
Is America rising or declining? | Letter
As I watched the Fourth of July fireworks, I wondered where the United States is heading. Where will we be in 20 or 30 years? Recalling history, I think of the many countries and civilizations that have risen to greatness and later declined: Greece, Rome, the Incas and Spain, to name a few. We seem […]
Bobby Charles is about love of country, not hatred of individuals | Letter
In his April 3 column, “Just who the heck is this new columnist?” Steve Collins wrote, “I’ll do my best to be truthful and fair.” His Aug. 3 column, “Maine gubernatorial candidate spreads hate on campaign trail,” shows that Steve needs to try harder. Responding to Republican gubernatorial candidate Bobby Charles’ call for Somali-born legislator […]
Columnist owes the Red Sox an apology | Letter
In contrast to Maine Republicans, Boston’s baseballers are on a roll.