Under no realistic set of circumstances will Eliot Cutler win the November election. He continues to trail badly in polls; his personal arrogance and conspicuous four-year absence from public debate will never endear him to any voter already committed to the other candidates.

His conceit will not allow him to drop out of the governor’s race on his own. His supporters must soon realize their obligation to the common good, as most already recognize the importance of defeating Paul LePage. That means voting for Mike Michaud.

Any protest vote cast for Cutler will only re-burden Maine with its infamous embarrassment for another term.

Michaud has dedicated his life to public service and lives like most Mainers. Cutler lives in a mansion, large even by Cape Elizabeth standards, paid for in part by work helping companies move American jobs offshore.

The choice is clear.

Douglas Born, Auburn