Sen. Susan Collins’ weak opposition to the destructive dismantling of American democracy requires one of two responses. The senator must either switch parties and vote with the Democrats, who, despite their imperfections, are united in opposing President Trump and his sycophants’ totalitarian impulses; or, continue ineffectively to voice her supposed outrage as a moderate Republican — clearly a losing proposition.

The senator voted to approve Trump appointee Russell Vought, author of the cuts to USAID, which have caused already the deaths of thousands denied essential assistance. Therefore her protestations of budgetary cruelty to innocents ring hollow.

Sen. Collins ought to show courage against Trump or step aside. The GOP as we once knew it is now a Trump cult, hell-bent on destroying American representative democracy.

The senator should change course now or lose her seat.

Rabbi Andy Bachman
Portland