PORTSMOUTH, N.H. -- The Portsmouth Herald newspaper is endorsing a Republican and a Democrat in Maine races.

The New Hampshire newspaper, which circulates in southern Maine, says Republican Susan Collins' record of bipartisanship makes her the better candidate in the Senate race. But the newspaper says Maine would be ably served by Collins or her rival, Democrat Tom Allen.

The Herald also endorses Chellie Pingree in Maine's 1st Congressional District race, in which she faces Republican Charlie Summers.

In other editorials today, the Kennebec Journal in Augusta and Morning Sentinel in Waterville endorsed Democratic Congressman Mike Michaud for re-election in the 2nd District. The newspapers said voters have little choice in the race, in which little-known Republican John Frary is challenging Michaud.

The two Central Maine Newspapers also urged voters to repeal new taxes on beer, wine and soda to help fund the state's Dirigo Health program.