Many Maine Democrats are falling in line behind Barack Obama because he offers them hope, which is exactly what we in Maine live on.

During the last election, Democrats offered us hope that we would see tax relief if only we voted down TABOR. Now all we are hearing is debate over how much our taxes will have to go up.

Gov. Baldacci has chosen a different path, backing Hillary Clinton because she has offered a different kind of hope. She has stated that her health care proposal will ensure that every American has health insurance (nearly 25 percent of Maine can’t afford any). Further, she has stated that it will cost no more than $2,700 per year for quality coverage. And if you can’t afford it at that low cost, you will receive tax credits and other money so you can.

Most Mainers, if they can afford it, pay $10,000 or more per year for health insurance, so Clinton’s guarantee is, truly, a lifesaver. From Baldacci’s point of view, Clinton is the better choice.

Most Democrats realize Clinton’s mandated health insurance won’t work here in Maine, so they conclude the only alternative is hope in massive quantities because there is no hope for most Mainers under either the current mandated legislative requirements, Baldacci’s Dirigo plan or Clinton’s plan. If only hope could make health care affordable. Reality is never considered when hope is available.

William Chapman

Rockport