goatboy of hallowell, ME George, my respect for you just went up a notch. But here's the deal: the Republicans are, and always will be, the party of and for the rich, and will first, last and foremost represent the interests of-at best- the top 10% of the population. Since that's not enough to rule with, they will throw you a few bones to get your support, especially if it doesn't cost them anything. At this time, the Democrats aren't much better- they're forced to play the same big-money-special-interest game in order to stay competitive, but there is one major difference. They AREN't the party of the rich, and so can become whatever their membership wants them to be. So stay with the party, George, bring your ideas, I'm sure you have some good ones. We'll listen, George.report abuse

mike mitchell of portland, ME James Moore you sure hit the nail on the head.lets just hope the people of this country DONOT ELECT JOHN McSHAME.THAT WOULD BE A REAL SHAME.CANADA HERE I COME.report abuse

micilio of palermo, ME Another great article.I am glad that there is still something worth reading in this newspaper.Thanks George.report abuse

Gunkholer of Augusta, ME Now George Smith knows what life has been like for me all the time. I am what is officially referred to as "unenrolled", but I like to think of as "independent". That means I have no particular party affiliation, but find myself liking and disliking both "major parties" by turn.

I like Republican's call for small government, but not their desire to direct the citizen's personal life or lifestyle.

I like Democrat's inclusiveness, but not their desire to find a government program to solve EVERY problem, no matter how small.

That's why I never signed up for one party or the other, but it does sometimes make it difficult to explain whose "side" I am on.report abuse