[quote AcrossthePond55]@HoldMyLobster
So, do you think Collins' 'nay' vote was with the blessings of the party in order to boost her chances of reelection or did she really 'go rogue' this time?[/quote]
She didn't have the party's blessing, but on the other hand her vote wasn't going to make a difference either way. So she was able to do what I have no doubt she felt was right, without having to wait to find out what Mitch wanted her to do.
And remember more than 1/3 of Maine has already voted.
Too many women in Maine (who she really needed to win over) are still absolutely furious about the Kavanaugh vote.
And the Trumpies are still furious she won't say she's voting for him. She's in a no-win situation.
Read the comments on this Press Herald story...
www.pressherald.com/2020/10/26/collins-breaks-with-party-to-oppose-barrett-confirmation/
"Too little, too late, Susan. Should have drawn the line at Kavanaugh and should have stood up for women's rights.
"Collins vote was not needed...she got permission from Trump & McConnell to vote any way she wanted to.
"This was a politically motivated move, not a philosophical one. She knew her "no: vote would make no difference to the outcome. It would be interesting to uncover her communications with the Republican power brokers, who likely agreed with this strategy as a potential way to save her seat.
"Collins voted no, but rather than bravely reading her statement, she simply had it entered into the record. Way to make a stand, Senator Coward! What use is your experience and leadership if you cower in the shadows when there are difficult issues?
"Sorry Senator, but at this point I just see your vote as "cya" time.
"She is playing the game!! To late already voted. No more tricks Susan!