Staff Reports
U.S. Senator Susan Collins’ Biddeford constituent office was vandalized on the eve of the midterm election when someone splashed red paint and scrawled “BLOOD on her HANDS” on the sidewalk and doors. Biddeford police say they are investigating. The scene, captured in photos released by Collins’ campaign, looks less like protest and more like intimidation aimed at staff who help veterans and seniors with benefits.
What happened at the Biddeford office
Campaign photos show a pool of red paint outside the office at 160 Main Street and the message painted across the entryway. Staff found the vandalism shortly before polls opened and reported it to police. U.S. Senator Susan Collins reminded reporters that this is a federal constituent-service office, not a campaign headquarters. Her team said staff refused to be intimidated and kept the office open to help people with Social Security and veterans’ problems.
Why the timing and location matter
This wasn’t random. The vandalism came on the eve of Election Day, when tensions are already high in a close U.S. Senate race. The Biddeford office has been a flashpoint since an ICE officer-involved shooting in the town earlier this year sparked protests. The office was hit by vulgar spray paint in September and Collins said her Bangor home was egged that month too. That pattern makes this look like targeted harassment, not free speech.
Who should be held to account
Let’s call this what it is: an attempt to scare public servants doing routine work for constituents. Local police are investigating and should follow every lead — including surveillance video and forensic traces. If local law enforcement can’t solve it quickly, federal authorities ought to step in. Political leaders, including the Democratic nominee, previously condemned earlier incidents. They should do the same now, in clear, unambiguous terms, not with vague silence that lets mobs set the tone.
The bottom line
Vandalism of a constituent office is cowardice dressed up as protest. It punishes caseworkers and citizens trying to get help, and it tries to change the political conversation by fear. Voters should reject intimidation at the polls and demand consequences for those who cross the line from speech into criminal damage. Meanwhile, Collins’ staff deserves credit for staying on the job — and anyone who thinks paint is a persuasive political argument needs to try a new hobby.
