Susan Collins announces reelection bid in pivotal Maine Senate race

The 73-year-old Republican senator faces a renewed Democratic effort to oust her 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 announced her reelection bid for the Maine Senate seat she has held for five terms. Collins faces a tough challenge from Democratic candidates including Gov. Janet Mills and political newcomer Graham Platner, in a race that could determine control of the U.S. Senate. Collins has positioned herself as an independent voice, occasionally clashing with former President Trump, but also largely supporting his agenda.

Why it matters

Collins' reelection bid is seen as a pivotal race that could tip the balance of power in the U.S. Senate. As a moderate Republican, her victory or defeat could have significant implications for the legislative agenda in Washington. The race is also a test of Collins' political survival skills in a state that has trended more Democratic in recent years.

The details

Collins, 73, is betting that she can hold onto her coveted Maine seat despite a renewed Democratic effort to oust her. The Democrats need to net four seats to retake the Senate majority, and they are targeting Collins' seat as a key pickup opportunity. Her top Democratic challengers are Gov. Janet Mills and political newcomer Graham Platner, who has gained traction with his anti-establishment message and economic equality platform. Collins has faced criticism over her support for Trump administration policies, including the confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Health and Human Services Secretary, but she has also broken with the party at times, such as voting to convict Trump after his 2021 impeachment.

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

The players

Susan Collins

A 73-year-old Republican senator who has represented Maine in the U.S. Senate since 1997. She is seeking a sixth term in the 2026 election.

Janet Mills

The Democratic governor of Maine and a top challenger to Collins in the 2026 Senate race.

Graham Platner

A political newcomer and Democratic challenger to Collins, running on an anti-establishment and economic equality platform.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.