Thomas E. Shields defined insanity as doing the same things while expecting different outcomes, something he knows well.

In the past I’ve challenged Dr. Shields on his strict party line rhetoric as not what Mainers need from their government. But, I have to take him to task on his recent rant (Sept. 12).

Americans have a right, in fact, a duty, to question the decisions of their president. Holding elected officials accountable ensures government remains for the people and by the people.

While I often disagree with him, Dr. Shields has always done this quite well. But claiming our president is a racist and the war on terrorism is actually a war on Islam is offensive to all we stand for as Americans.

Every day, moderate Muslims are on television decrying terrorists and extremists acting in the name of Islam. Every day, I see the Republican Party practicing the politics of division, hatred and racism (see Newt Gingrich). Perhaps Dr. Shields would see those moderates if he got his news from other than Fox News.

Throughout history, America has vilified black, Jewish, Italian, Irish and, now, Muslim Americans. All because they were new to our country, and viewed as different, inferior. All have proven to be based on fear, not fact or reality.

Should Mainers elect Republicans? If Dr. Shields’ views reflect the Republican Party’s, the answer is a resounding no. That would be insane.

David D. T. Marquis, Lewiston