The November congressional election could seriously affect the future of the United States. In Maine, voters have an opportunity to re-elect a conscientious and dedicated public servant, Sen. Susan Collins, who has never missed a vote, versus Rep. Tom Allen, whose record speaks for itself.

It would be a disservice to America if Collins isn’t elected.

I don’t always agree with Collins’ votes, but she should be given the benefit of the doubt, because she is there and has access to all the information on an issue, whereas most people know only what the news sources feed them.

Partisanship has played too strong a role in caring for this country. Maine’s senators are among the few to reach across the aisle to try to solve some of the country’s problems.

The state and the nation need Sen. Collins to return to Washington.

Thomas F. Shields, Auburn