PORTLAND (AP) – Maine Sen. Susan Collins says she came away from Monday’s meeting with Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano with a favorable impression. But she’s reserving final judgment until completion of the confirmation hearing for President-elect Barack Obama’s choice to lead the Department of Homeland Security.

Collins says Napolitano is knowledgeable about homeland security issues, and the two discussed a range of related topics including border security and port security.

Collins, who’s ranking Republican on the Homeland Security Committee, says she’s pleased that Napolitano understands the need to accommodate legitimate trade and travel. In Collins’ words: “We have to let our friends in, while keeping our enemies out.” She says she looks forward to additional discussions.

AP-ES-01-05-09 1736EST