Susan Collins announces reelection bid for Maine Senate seat

The veteran Republican senator faces challenges from Democrats in a race that could determine control of the U.S. Senate.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Republican Sen. Susan Collins has announced her reelection bid for her Maine Senate seat, betting that she can hold onto the coveted position despite a renewed Democratic effort to oust her. The campaign will test Collins' political survival skills as she seeks a sixth term, with Democrats aiming to net four seats to retake the Senate majority.

Why it matters

Collins' reelection bid is seen as crucial in determining control of the U.S. Senate, with Democrats targeting her seat as one of their top priorities. The race will also test Collins' ability to navigate the political landscape in Maine, which has become increasingly blue in recent years.

The details

Collins, a 73-year-old Republican, has won five terms by casting herself as a reflection of Maine's independent spirit, occasionally clashing with former President Donald Trump while also largely supporting his agenda. As she seeks a sixth term, Collins faces outrage over immigration enforcement tactics that could become a political liability for Republican candidates across the country. Democrats have accused Collins of not going far enough in her criticism of the federal immigration operations in Maine.

  • Collins announced her reelection bid on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
  • The 2026 election will take place in November.

The players

Susan Collins

A Republican senator from Maine who is seeking a sixth term in the U.S. Senate.

Janet Mills

The Democratic governor of Maine and a top challenger to Collins in the Senate race.

Graham Platner

An anti-establishment Democratic candidate who has gained traction in the race with his message of economic equality.

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What they’re saying

“I have always worked across the aisle to solve problems. Maine needs experienced, steady leadership that focuses on getting things done.”

— Susan Collins (pbs.org)

“Seniority without a backbone is just tenure, and after decades in Washington, Senator Collins has failed to demonstrate the leadership required in this dangerous moment in history.”

— Janet Mills, Governor of Maine (pbs.org)

“That's just one of a hundred reasons she doesn't deserve a sixth term.”

— Graham Platner, Democratic candidate (pbs.org)

What’s next

The 2026 Senate election in Maine will take place in November, with the winner serving a six-year term.

The takeaway

Collins' reelection bid will be a closely watched race that could have significant implications for the balance of power in the U.S. Senate. The contest will test the veteran senator's ability to navigate the changing political landscape in Maine and fend off challenges from her Democratic opponents.