Hannah Arendt, in “The Origins of Totalitarianism,” notes that “the Nazis were well aware of the protective wall of incredulity which surrounded their enterprise” … despite reports of atrocity. “Most likely such propaganda would have no effect only because people who hear and read about it simply would not be ready to believe it.”

Despite the meticulous expose of fact that resulted in Trump’s 34 guilty verdicts, Susan Collins denigrates and demeans the integrity of our judicial system. A jury of her and Trump’s peers contemplated fact before determining guilt.

Susan Collins’ inability to believe a convicted felon will be her party’s presidential nominee threatens to undermine our entire country and separation of the judicial, legislative and executive powers of this democracy.

Sen. Collins needs to apologize to every citizen in this state for exploiting — just as Trump has — the privilege of her position.

Susan Cook
Bath