I feel like I’m in a dream, where I am screaming with no sound coming out. This is what it is like to watch voting rights being restricted all over the country. I don’t think I am alone. Many of us are watching future elections being fixed right now, and it’s terrifying.

In 2006, Sen. Susan Collins co-sponsored a bill to extend provisions of the Voting Rights Act. She said, “One of the most fundamental and significant rights afforded to American citizens is the right to vote. This right must not be hampered or denied to any citizen through discriminatory tactics.” Sen. Collins must show us that she still believes this!

There is no tangible justification for voting restrictions. After the last election, multiple recounts ended with the same results. Voting in other states should be as easy as it is here in Maine. I live in our state’s most populated square mile, and voting here is a breeze. I want all eligible voters to share my experience. Without sweeping reforms, this will not be the case.

I worry about how hard it might be to rebuild a democracy once lost. Sen. Collins must work across the aisle to protect the right to vote.

Pamela Brock
Portland