The recent article (Sept. 28) concerning Olympia Snowe caught my attention. I am one of those ex-Republicans who admired Snowe for decades. I voted for her every time she ran for the House or the Senate.

She says she wants Republicans to “coalesce around … bedrock principles.”

Do those “bedrock principles” include calling President Barack Obama an alien, a socialist, a Nazi, a supporter of terrorists or other false labels?

I listened for her rejection of such cheap shots, but her silence was truly impressive.

I am one of those life-long Republicans (since the 1960s) who could not stay in a party that no longer welcomes moderates, but celebrates the words of demagogues.

I had a Republican senator once who stood up to fanaticism and hate. Her name was Margaret Chase Smith. I remember her well.

Snowe is no Margaret Chase Smith. She chose to ride the tea party tiger, and that tiger may consume her.

Many Republicans will be glad people like me are leaving the party. The feeling is mutual.

Rodney Abbott, West Paris