This week, ClickBack continues on a political path as we march toward Election Day, just six weeks away. We are seeking the thoughts of editorial page readers on the Susan Collins-Tom Allen race for the U.S. Senate, the fate of school consolidation votes in your community, and what you think about a more regulated economy.

To participate, go to bangordailynews.com and use the pull-down Opinion menu and let up on ClickBack. You may also post your own question there, or reply to earlier questions.

Should Maine stay the course with Susan Collins, or put a Democrat in the Senate?

Incumbent Sen. Susan Collins, a Republican, has served two terms, and, by most accounts, has been effective, moderate and bipartisan. Tom Allen, the six-term representative to Congress from Maine’s 1st District who is highly regarded in that region, is challenging her for the Senate seat. Allen supporters argue that his views are closer to those of most Mainers, and that if elected, he would be in the majority in Congress. Collins supporters counter that she has gained stature in Washington, and has found a way to pass legislation even while in the minority.

Is Collins a true moderate or does she stick with the Bush administration and its agenda too often? Is Allen too liberal or do his views on health care, the economy and other issues better align with Maine values? Is electing a filibusterproof Democratic majority in the Senate a worthy goal or a recipe for bad policy? Will the outcome of the presidential election affect the Senate race?

How will the school consolidation vote fare in your community?

On Nov. 4, many communities in Maine will vote on plans to merge with neighboring school districts. If your community is one of them, do you think the merger will pass? Should it? Did you sign the petition to overturn the consolidation law? Have you changed your mind about the issue?

Does our banking system need more regulation?

Recent developments in the U.S. financial services industry suggest more regulation was needed when banks were offering low-interest mortgages and investment firms developed complex financial schemes. Will elected officials be able to resist the opponents of regulation? Will such regulations be a drag on the economy? Or should capitalism’s “highs” be more closely tethered to avoid what seem to be the inevitable hangover?

As always, some comments may be featured on Friday’s OpEd page. Look for more ClickBack questions in next Tuesday’s editorial column, and follow the discussion at bangordailynews.com.