The University of Maine graduation ceremony last Saturday was attended by proud friends and families and excited graduates, but we had to endure a less than inspiring commencement address by Stephen King.

Commencement addresses are not known for their inspiration, but should not be used to advance political views. King lessened his standing in our community by making disparaging remarks about some of our political leaders and pushing his own interpretation of their policies. I can only assume he was asked to address students and supporters because he is a local person successful in his field and not because of his politics.