There is no way that our Maine contingent in Washington, D.C., can think it’s a good idea to raise taxes.

That’s why they should be leaders in the effort to maintain the current tax rates on dividends and capital gains. If the rates we have now expire, we’re facing a tax hike that we can’t afford. It hits our businesses, retirees and seniors the hardest, and that just isn’t right.

By extending the rates, Sens. Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins and U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud would be sending a message to Maine businesses that they want them to grow and will do their best to give them the solid footing to succeed. 

I know U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree is a lost cause, but I hope Maine’s three moderate leaders can find the courage to say no to special interests looking for more tax dollars and yes to Maine’s small businesses and seniors.

We need them now more than ever.

Travis LaLiberte, Greene