I noticed two recent letters to the editor from out-of-staters threatening to never visit Maine again because of Graham Platner’s popular support during primary season. They both reminisced about their cherished memories here, but are reluctant to ever return again.

One of the letters (“We’re skipping Maine because Maine supported Platner,” July 19) concluded, “… I don’t need to spend money in a state that supports a person of such poor character.”

Its author happens to be from Florida, a state considered a stronghold for the current president, who also happens to be a convicted felon and adjudicated as a sexual abuser in a federal court. Poor character doesn’t seem to stop the author from living and spending money in that state.

The other letter (“Troubled by the Maine I see on the news,” July 21) reflects lovingly on “the lighthouses, the islands, the sea … Monhegan … Campobello Island …” and other lifelong memories. Now, though, the writer considers Maine a state of “malcontents” and “politically ignorant” people. This author, who is from Indiana, another heavily red state, is waiting to see if Mainers have “lost their minds.”

The sights, sounds and experiences these folks so fondly recall in their visits here have not disappeared just because they didn’t like the former candidate from one of the two major political parties. The islands are still here, as are the lakes, the ocean, local shops and the many great restaurants.

You folks are welcome to come here but, please, check your insults and prejudice at the door.

Andrew Pal
Windham