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Sen. Susan Collins has been a strong voice for the State of Maine and Washington for decades. I admire the senator and her ethics.
While I don’t always agree with Collins, I applaud her for standing firm on an issue about basic fairness and the original intent of the law. Title IX was originally passed to protect opportunities for girls and women based on biological sex, not gender identity, and it’s time for Maine’s leaders to get back to this fundamental principle.
The ongoing conflict between how the State of Maine and the Trump Administration interpret Title IX has real consequences. I stand with the federal government’s position that transgender girls should not compete in girls’ and women’s sports. To me, this is not about discrimination; it’s about fairness in competition, equality for women, and preserving the integrity of women’s athletics.
I believe every person deserves dignity and respect, but that doesn’t mean we can ignore biological realities. Title IX was meant to give women equal access to opportunities in sports, not be used for social experimentation.
Gov. Janet Mills (whom I also respect for her life accomplishments) and her administration are out of step with the people of Maine, according to polling. It’s time they put ideology aside and stood up for our girls.
Collins is right to speak out on this issue. She has my full support and my thanks for defending what’s right.
David C. Burns
Whiting
