In this opinion article, columnist John Casey argues that accountability should apply equally to all political candidates involved in controversies.The piece focuses on the Maine Senate race, where Democratic candidate Graham Platner is facing scrutiny over allegations from former partners involving intimidation, emotional abuse, and behavior they described as frightening.

Casey states that Platner should never have entered the race if he had significant personal issues in his past that could become public and damage both his campaign and his party.However, the author contends that Republican Senator Susan Collins should not be viewed merely as an observer commenting on Platner's conduct.Casey highlights Collins' response to the allegations, noting that she said Platner had serious questions to answer.The article then shifts to Collins' own record, particularly her 2018 vote to confirm Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh.

Casey argues that despite acknowledging the emotional impact of Christine Blasey Ford's testimony and expressing confidence that Kavanaugh would not support overturning Roe v.Wade, Collins ultimately voted to confirm him.The author maintains that many Americans warned that Roe could be overturned and that Collins ignored those concerns.

Casey links her vote to the Supreme Court's later decision in Dobbs, which ended federal abortion protections and led to abortion restrictions in many states.

While emphasizing that Platner remains responsible for addressing the allegations against him, Casey argues that Collins should also face continued scrutiny for the consequences of her decisions and should be held accountable for her role in confirming Kavanaugh.