Why doesn’t the Sun Journal regularly publish how our congressman and senators vote on important federal issues? And how our Androscoggin County legislative delegation votes in Augusta on important issues?

Why are there billions in delinquent unpaid income taxes by federal employees, including many in the White House (source: Washington Post)? Who is responsible for collection and prosecution?

Among the 50 states, Maine is in the top 10 for property tax, income tax, and the percentage of income paid to state and local taxes (source: State Treasurer Bruce Poliquin). Our current liberal spending Democrat majority may well propose more taxes. We are fortunate that Gov. Paul LePage has promised to veto more taxes.

Gov. LePage is rightfully hesitant to accept the federal Medicaid expansion, since it is reported to be federally funded only for four years. Then what? It is estimated to add 55,000 people to Medicaid.

After the fully-funded period passes, Maine will be responsible for all of those who become dependent on state support. Who will have the political courage to then say “No, we cannot afford to continue”? Is this the subtle pathway to socialized, single-payer medical care?

In 2002, Medicaid was expanded to childless adults who had low incomes. The rush to enroll and use the services of that program “broke the bank” and enrollment had to be frozen at less than 20,000.

With that experience in mind, I cannot imagine what 55,000 clients will cost. Not all programs are affordable.

Thomas Shields, Auburn