The removal of a mural depicting Maine’s labor history from The Labor Department’s lobby has piqued interest across the nation.

It has also sparked controversy in Maine.

In one of many recent gaffes by Maine’s newest governor, Paul LePage said last week the mural was removed because of its anti-business message, and the objection by some business owners that the mural is hostile toward employers. LePage also blamed bad timing for much of the attention.

It seems though that the governor makes rash decisions and often speaks without considering the consequences, and adding insult to injury, he often seems defiant and is unapologetic when questioned on his words and actions.

Maine has been making headlines lately for all the wrong reasons. This issue, and others, has become fodder for late-night comedians and shows like the Colbert Report on Comedy Central.

Instead of defending his words, LePage would be well-served by learning how to apologize and concede gracefully. It seems that is not something he has been willing to do, and it makes Maine’s political environment hostile.

Objections to LePage’s speech and actions is not contained to Democrats and liberals, either.

On Monday, a group of eight Republican senators published an op-ed in several Maine newspapers, also printed on this very page in today’s Journal Tribune, calling on LePage to stop disrespecting Maine people with careless words. The group, led by state Sens. Roger J. Katz and Brian D. Langley, pledged to treat their fellow legislators with “dignity and respect” and asked all Mainers ”“ including the governor ”“ to do the same.

The senators chose their words well, and their message that belittling comments have no place in public life is encouraging.

We hope all Mainers will heed their words and keep a tone of respect and civility even when the debate becomes impassioned.

It is important that Gov. LePage in particular start to show he can speak with respect and resolve situations, rather than fuel the fire.

He would also be well-served to show he is on the side of the people and not exclusively committed to a pro-business agenda.

Polarizing comments, in addition to actions like removing the labor mural, paint a picture of a governor who refuses to compromise and is insensitive to the plight of Maine’s working population.

We hope LePage will show he is on the side of the people while encouraging economic growth that will support Maine people through well-paying jobs.

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Questions? Comments? Contact Managing Editor Kristen Schulze Muszynski by calling 282-1535, Ext. 322, or via e-mail at kristenm@journaltribune.com.