Staff Writer

 U.S. Sen. Olympia Snowe hosted a Main Street Walk Tuesday morning in Saco to visit constituents and listen to their concerns.

“My constituents are my best teachers and tours like these are a prime opportunity to learn about their challenges and suggestions, which I am able to bring back to Washington and address on their behalf,” Snowe said.

The Republican senator, who is up for re-election in 2012, said she was eager to hear from area residents and business owners about their concerns “in these tough economic times.” She said she understands people feel frustrated and have deep anxiety over the economy in the wake of the downgrade of the country’s credit rating. She said she shares those same frustrations.

“We had plenty of time to work through these issues,” she said.

Peg Poulin of State Farm Insurance told Snowe she feels people are still nervous when it comes to spending and saving money.

“People are nervous about starting to save because they’re not sure if the money will be there,” she said. “People who have money aren’t spending it.”

As she walked down Main Street, Snowe was stopped by Gary Allen, a Vietnam veteran from Saco who wanted to discuss his concerns about veterans’ benefits. She also spoke to Patricia Smith of Stone Soup Artisans about the importance of supporting small businesses and working together in Washington. Smith asked her if it is possible to get politicians to work together more on issues that are important to voters.

“I like to solve problems. That’s my job, to solve problems, not fight about it all the time,” Snowe said.

Snowe also visited with Chris Rizeakos, owner of the Golden Rooster, and James Cotsis, frame department manager at Sam’s Place. She said it is important for her to understand the needs of small businesses so she can find ways to help them through a tough economy.

Cotsis told Snowe it is essential that Mainers support small businesses by shopping local. Snowe said she agrees and praised the businesses that make Saco’s downtown “fabulous.”

Staff Writer Gillian Graham can be reached at 282-4337, ext. 213.