The Hypocrisy of Poliquin

The hypocrisy of Rep. Bruce Poliquin on denying job protections to LGBT workers leaves my head spinning. First, Poliquin opposed a House amendment that would allow employers to not hire or to fire gay and lesbian workers simply on the basis of their sexual orientation. Then he changes his vote to support the same amendment, which then passed by one vote, maybe Poloquin’s. When asked why he changed his vote he tried to dodge the question by saying it wasn’t because of political pressure from Republican party bosses. I worked in the U.S. Congress as a staff person for 24 years and from my experience, there are only two reasons why a Member of Congress changes their vote: Either they regret the first vote they cast or they are pressured by party leaders to do their bidding.

Either way, Poliquin came out against job protections for LGBT’s while insisting that he “opposed discrimination in any form.” Really? Based upon this vote, where is the evidence to support this?

Poliquin should explain his vote-switching. But then, based upon his voting behavior, can we trust what he says?

Gary Aldridge,
Brunswick

In Support of Hepler

I had the distinct pleasure of working with Allison Hepler in the last two years organizing a committee for my town to help better communicate with the public using e-mail, a printed and digital newsletter and social media. Allison is organized, open minded, and extremely enjoyable to work with. She is kind and caring very knowledgeable and an excellent communicator. Allison works hard to make things happen. She has done that for the Town and she will do that at the State House.

Kelly Corbett,
Woolwich