There are times when a particular election rises well above business as usual. The race for Maine’s next governor is shaping up to be just such an election. As a proud Democrat, I have been alarmed with both the behavior and decisions of Maine’s own neo-aristocrat and chief career politician, John Baldacci. When the Democratic Party is pursuing its highest ideals, it reaches a fine balance between altruism and progressiveness. At its worst, it is doing exactly what the Republican Party is doing nationally, serving itself and making its decisions based on keeping power.

There is a sense among some Democrats in Maine that Baldacci has been drinking at the public trough far too long. When he shrilly stated at a fund-raiser with John Kerry that he “wasn’t in it for the job,” his statement rang untrue. That’s precisely why he is in it. At night he may try to tell himself that he isn’t desperate to keep power so that he will not lose his purpose and identity. However, it is too late for Baldacci to rediscover where he lost so many Mainers, possibly when he decided that he was better than the people he represents.

The time is right for serious change in Maine. Peter Mills should consider becoming an independent and drawing from the strength of both parties, which is what made Angus King so effective. The votes are there, and the will to unseat “Imperial Baldacci” among Democrats such as myself has never been stronger.

Mark Tardif, Waterville

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