I found Roger Farnum’s criticism of state Sen. Margaret Craven, D-Lewiston, to be typical of today’s partisan politics. It was mean-spirited, inaccurate and, frankly, non-productive.

The quote he referred to should have read “it would cost her $7 to visit her grandchildren” (after proposed toll increase). I find that more believable than she “can’t add or is loose with the facts” as Farnum suggests.

The problem with his letter is that it minimizes the perception of the impact of the proposed increase. To anyone who uses the turnpike and struggles to pay for it, it would be no “small” increase (Auburn to Gray is a whopping 42 percent).

Craven was in concert with the 30-plus people who spoke at Auburn Hall, including her Republican counterpart from Auburn, and detailed how the increase would unfairly hurt the working commuters of Lewiston-Auburn. All spoke about how devastating the increase would be. I know Farnum didn’t speak of his acceptance for the increase. No one did.

Farnum’s suggestion of Route 196 as an alternative is a certainly valid but it may have a negative effect. As more people use the alternatives, revenues for the turnpike will continue to drop, forcing more increases in tolls.

An OPEGA investigation unearthed Paul Violette’s criminal activity. Perhaps a little effort every few years is a good idea at the Maine Turnpike Authority.

Like many others, I cannot understand why 109 miles of highway is so expensive. So, I am behind Sen. Craven 100 percent.

Ron Russell, Auburn