“Idiots,” “kiss my butt,” “the Gestapo,” the use of intimidation to get his way — sound familiar? Those words and actions are not from a child or an uneducated adult but, rather, the governor of Maine.

Many would say that he is only speaking his mind. How would these people react if they, themselves, or family members were treated this way? What if your own family members treated you in this manner? I’m sure you would not tolerate it at all.

Not only have the people of Maine had to endure being the laughingstock of the nation, but lawmakers in our own state have done their best to enable the continuation of these kinds of abuses.

By defending and making excuses for his actions, many Republican legislators have said that it is OK to call people idiots, or to tell them to kiss their butts and to use intimidation to get one’s way is totally acceptable behavior of a governor — only because of his party affiliation.

News flash — abuse is abuse — whether domestic, friend, stranger or by elected officials, and should not be acceptable or defended. Those who try should be voted out of office, as it is apparent they believe that kind of abuse is good for them but no one else.

The voters of Maine deserve more and should demand more and can get it by standing up in November and not vote for those who justify abuse to make their point.

Remember, there is no excuse for abuse.

Joseph Mailey, Auburn