Senator Collins 'Troubled' by Reports of Somali Interpreters Guiding Voters
Claims emerge that interpreters may be influencing how migrant women cast ballots in Maine's midterm elections.
Maine Republican Senator Susan Collins has expressed concern over allegations that Somali interpreters are accompanying women to polling stations and potentially influencing their votes in the state's upcoming midterm elections.
Collins stated on Wednesday that she had recently become aware of the claims and found them "troubling," emphasizing that only American citizens should participate in U.S. elections. "It is troubling to me if people are being accompanied into voting booths and handling ballots in a way that is not sanctioned by law," she told reporters.
The allegations surfaced Tuesday from The Maine Wire, which reported witnessing several elderly Somali individuals being escorted into polling places. According to the outlet's reporters, these individuals were allegedly escorted by translators, who also reportedly organized transportation from housing complexes to the polls and provided instructions on how to vote.
The Maine Wire further claimed that these translators are employed by taxpayer-funded non-governmental organizations and Medicaid agencies. The alleged activities were observed as early voting commenced in Maine ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.
These reports specifically mentioned the town of Lewiston, Maine, which has a significant Somali population. This situation arises as Senator Collins faces a closely contested re-election campaign against her Democratic challenger, Troy Jackson. Recent polling indicates a tight race, with some surveys showing Jackson with a narrow lead.
Collins's campaign has seen previous shifts, with oyster farmer Graham Platner withdrawing from the race due to sexual misconduct allegations, which he denied. Jackson has also faced scrutiny, notably for revelations about fathering children with his second cousin.
The outcome of this race is considered significant for the balance of power in the Senate. Earlier in the month, Jackson drew criticism for telling Collins to "shut up" during a debate. The exchange occurred after a protester interrupted Collins, prompting her to suggest the protester was Jackson's supporter. Jackson responded forcefully, later telling CNN he had no regrets and felt he was being talked down to by Collins.
Collins subsequently commented on Jackson's remark, suggesting it reflected a pattern in his interactions with women with whom he disagrees. The Daily Mail has sought comment from Collins, Jackson, and the Maine Bureau of Elections regarding these matters.