Kudos to Gov. Paul LePage for calling out the “deplorable” tactics of the Humane Society of the United States following its investigation of an egg farm. Rather than alert authorities and stop alleged cruelty immediately, HSUS created a highlight video, generating media and no doubt drawing donations.

Unfortunately, that isn’t the first time such deplorable tactics have been used. A number of states have considered laws requiring the reporting of animal abuse within a reasonable period of time, such as 48 hours — much as the reporting of child abuse is required. Yet bizarrely, HSUS and other animal rights groups have fought such sensible measures.

An organization claiming to support animal welfare should speak up if it thinks animals are being abused. But the hypocrites at the Humane Society of the United States seem to think money and media coverage are more important.

Will Coggin, director of research

Center for Consumer Freedom, Washington, D.C.