Susan Collins issued a statement regarding D.C. Court of Appeals Judge Brett Kavanaugh’s nomination for Supreme Court justice saying that Kavanaugh has “impressive credentials and extensive experience.” That’s true, and the senator might have added deep Republican contacts through his elite prep school and Ivy League pedigree.

As the staff secretary for President George W. Bush, Kavanaugh, handling nearly everything that came across the president’s desk, gained a deep understanding of the workings of government, including how to undermine every department he doesn’t like, such as the EPA or DOL. So he will be in a strong position to bring about the vision of former Trump advisor Steve Bannon to dismantle the administrative state and any protections it offers Americans.

Regarding Roe v. Wade, Mr. Trump stated plainly during the presidential debates that he intended to add two or three justices to the court to overturn the decision. He is doing just that. Kavanaugh will provide the fifth vote to do so. Two-thirds of the American people are opposed to overturning Roe, and Sen. Collins has stated she would oppose any nominee who “openly” stated he would vote to overturn Roe. So we can expect to see a lot of muddying of the waters to provide Susan Collins with deniability so she can vote for Trump’s nominee.

Collins has never waivered when it comes to supporting Trump’s judicial nominees. The only thing that will make her conform to her stated principles is enormous pressure from Maine people.

Renee Cote, Auburn