WASHINGTON, D.C. Portland Press Herald; July 27, 2000

    Maine Republicans could play a key role in a fight over the pro-life platform. The Maine delegates, most of whom want to keep abortions legal, may engage in a fight to remove the pro-life language from the platform.

    Sen. Olympia Snowe, who supports abortion on demand, said the platform is "harsh" and could pose a problem for pro-life Gov. George W. Bush in November unless it's changed. "If we don't deviate from the status quo in the platform, it presents an element of risk," she said.

    Failing that, pro-abortion activists have offered language to the platform that reads: "We recognize and respect differing views within our party on the deeply personal issue of abortion. We welcome people on all sides of this divisive issue and encourage their active participation as we work together on those issues we agree upon."

    If the abortion advocates lose in committee, the delegates could force the issue onto the convention floor on Monday, assuming the majority of delegates from six states sign petitions to do so.

    If a floor fight occurs, Maine delegates could find themselves in the middle of the debate. Four years ago, abortion advocates were able to collect enough signatures from delegates in Maine, Massachusetts, California and Wyoming.

    Snowe said she's working with abortion advocates to devise a convention strategy.

    Maine delegates said they have received only 50 to 60 letters from Maine abortion advocates, urging them to support efforts to remove the pro-life language from the platform.

    Several of the Maine delegates say they agree with the letter writers, but they're resigned to the fact that the pro-life side will probably win again. "I'd like to see the platform changed," said Albert Glickman of Cape Elizabeth. "But there's nothing we can do about it."

    State Sen. Jane Amero said she would also like to see the platform neutral on abortion, but she doesn't think it will happen. "I think Republicans want to come out of this convention united, not divided, and that is the number-one divisive issue in the party," said Amero, who is running for Congress in November against pro-abortion Democratic Rep. Tom Allen.

    Although outnumbered, some Maine delegates and alternates who are pro-life say it's important that the pro-life language remain in the platform. "The Republicans have got to stand for something, and that's one thing the Republicans stand for," said Elaine Bridge of Manchester.

    Dick Campbell of Holden, who's running against pro-abortion Democratic Rep. John Baldacci in November, agreed that the pro-life language should remain in the platform. He said it reflects the views of Mainers on the issue. "I think the Republicans are right where they need to be at this time and place," Campbell said.

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