Maine Democrats are strategizing to find a challenger capable of overcoming Susan Collins in the 2026 Senate election. Following the 2020 race, where Collins defeated Democratic candidate Sara Gideon by nine points, party members are eager to identify a candidate that can finally secure a win against the seasoned senator.
Potential Democratic Candidates for 2026
Two leading candidates have emerged for the Democratic nomination: Graham Platner and Janet Mills. Their contrasting backgrounds and approaches to campaigning reflect differing philosophies within the party.
Graham Platner
- Age: 41
- Profession: Oyster farmer and Iraq War veteran
- Style: Combative populist, attracting large crowds and sparking controversy
Janet Mills
- Age: 78
- Current position: Two-term governor of Maine
- Style: Subdued campaign approach with considerable legislative achievements
Supporters of Platner argue that the Democratic establishment has failed to defeat Collins in the past. They advocate for a more outsider-focused, populist message. Conversely, Mills’ team believes that an inexperienced candidate like Platner may not be viable against Collins, who has a proven track record in statewide elections.
Key Issues and Voter Concerns
Both candidates recognize that merely running against Collins is insufficient. Voter concerns in Maine include quality of life and cost of living. State Senator Mike Tipping commented on the need for a vision that resonates with constituents rather than solely opposing Collins.
Collins’ Position in the 2026 Race
Susan Collins, who first won her Senate seat in 1996, is now the only Republican incumbent up for reelection in a state Trump lost in 2024. She is a top target for Democrats hoping to regain a Senate majority. Despite facing criticism for her past votes and allegiance to Trump, Collins remains a formidable candidate.
Major Factors Influencing the Race
- Collins’s role as chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee enhances her political stature.
- Public opinion polls indicate Collins’s approval rating is now more vulnerable than in previous years.
- Democrats recognize a better chance in 2026 compared to 2020, regardless of the chosen candidate.
Some Democratic voters feel uncertain about Collins’s beatability. Many believe a passionate candidate could energize the electorate, allowing for a potential shift in political power.
As the race unfolds, the Maine Democratic Party continues to weigh its options, focusing not just on who can beat Collins but on how to resonate with Maine voters. With both Platner and Mills presenting unique advantages, the upcoming election will be a critical moment for the Democrats.
