We are deeply disappointed with U.S. Rep. Jared Golden’s vote to censure fellow Democratic Rep. Rashida Tlaib.

We support free speech, especially in the center of government, Congress. The censure of Ms. Tlaib is an effort to silence dissent and efforts to stifle speech prevent reform and progress. We also think the censure demonstrates an effort to prevent speaking truth to power.

We think the majority of the people of Maine, in both districts, will be deeply disappointed with Rep. Golden’s vote and stance on this issue of freedom, freedom of speech and expression in the halls of Congress. Rep. Golden was one of 22 Democrats who joined in this Republican-led initiative to reprimand Rep. Tlaib.

Rep. Tlaib represents the Detroit, Michigan House district. She is an American of Palestinian descent in the House and has been a strong moral voice and advocate for the rights of Palestinians in America and in Palestine.

Ed Ferreira, New Sharon