Could the base closure fiasco be a case of retaliation? Well, that’s what it looks to me. Look at the states that are feeling the brunt of this action. For the most part, the “blue” states are being taught a lesson.

The Northeast, which came in on the Kerry column last November, is being drastically hurt. The closure list is not merely a wrist-slapping, but a blow to the economy and a devastating crisis in the lives of many families of thousands and thousands of workers.

We must not turn our cheeks. It is time for our senators and congressmen to react. It is time that they truly represent their constituents. How? Let the administration know that it is “compromise” time. Remove Kittery and Brunswick from this list, or their votes will show their disfavor.

Both of our senators have stated that although they do not believe Mr. Bush’s choice for United Nations ambassador was the best for that job, they felt that he – the president – should have whom he chooses. Well, these closures and realignments are not best for Maine, New England or the security of this country.

Senators! Represent us now or never again!

Arnold L. Woolf, Lewiston