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Michael Novack is a business owner in Eastport.
I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment regarding the letter that state Sen. Joe Martin, R-Rumford, recently sent to Canadian officials and citizens, in which he suggested that the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba consider leaving Canada to become U.S. states. Not only do I believe this proposal was ill-considered, but the language and tone of the letter came across as arrogant, dismissive, and frankly insulting to one of America’s closest allies and neighbors.
Martin’s characterization of Canada’s democratic traditions — such as bilingualism, multiculturalism, constitutional monarchy, and parliamentary governance — as “political baggage” was particularly troubling to me. These are not inconveniences to be discarded; they are defining features of a sovereign nation’s identity, history, and values. To belittle them so casually disregards the very principles of self-determination and respect for cultural differences that our own nation claims to uphold.
Canada is not merely a neighbor across the border — it is a trusted partner, ally, and friend to the United States. Our nations share one of the longest undefended borders in the world, an economic partnership that benefits millions of citizens on both sides, and a history of military, diplomatic, and cultural cooperation that has helped preserve peace and stability across the globe.
For an elected official from Maine, a state with deep and direct ties to Canada, to issue such a condescending and unsolicited message is not only inappropriate but also damaging to this vital relationship.
Furthermore, the letter reads to me less like a thoughtful diplomatic outreach and more like a political manifesto designed to provoke and insult. Suggesting that Canadian provinces abandon their country for the supposed benefit of joining the United States diminishes both the complexity of international relations and the intelligence of Canadian citizens, who are more than capable of determining their own future without unsolicited advice from across the border. It assumes a superiority that is neither justified nor constructive.
Martin’s role as a state senator carries a responsibility not only to represent the people of Maine with dignity, but also to reflect the values of mutual respect and good faith in interactions with our international neighbors. I believe letters such as the one he sent undermine that responsibility. They suggest a lack of seriousness about the real issues facing our constituents — health care, economic development, infrastructure, education — and instead project an image of hostility and arrogance that does nothing to improve the lives of Maine citizens or strengthen U.S.–Canada relations.
I urge Martin to reflect on the consequences of his words and actions. Political theater at the expense of diplomacy is reckless, and using his office to disparage a neighboring nation diminishes the credibility of Maine’s legislative body. Our Canadian neighbors deserve respect, not ridicule. Our relationship with them should be strengthened through cooperation, not weakened by careless rhetoric.
In the future, I hope the senator will exercise better judgment and direct his efforts toward addressing the pressing issues within our own state, rather than attempting to interfere in the sovereignty of another nation. The people of Maine, and the citizens of Canada, deserve leadership that is thoughtful, respectful, and grounded in reality.
