Maine’s Senate Race: Collins vs. Platner

Republican Sen. Susan Collins is seeking a sixth six-year term in the U.S. Senate, representing Maine. She has officially secured her party’s nomination, running unopposed in Maine’s Senate GOP primary. As a significant figure in a few races across the nation, Collins plays a crucial role in determining whether Republicans retain their slim Senate majority.

At 73, Collins faces another challenging re-election campaign. Democrats, aiming to regain Senate control in the upcoming midterms, have targeted her once again. Collins remarked in a Fox News Digital interview, “I have been the No. 1 target of Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, not only in this campaign but the last two campaigns as well.”

Facing Collins is Graham Platner, a military veteran and oyster farmer. Platner is expected to become the Democratic nominee after Gov. Janet Mills exited the race, trailing in both fundraising and polls. Platner deals with several controversies, including inflammatory online comments, a controversial tattoo, and serious accusations from former partners.

Platner has openly discussed his struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder from his military service and past issues with alcohol. These controversies come as he runs on an economically populist agenda supported by prominent progressives like Sens. Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren.

Sen. Collins, a moderate Republican, is focusing on her record of achievement. She contrasts this with Platner’s approach, stating her dedication to addressing Maine’s high cost of living. She supports the low-income heating assistance program and opposes cuts in food benefits for low-income families.

While public opinion polls suggest a close race between Collins and Platner, Collins’ history shows resilience against Democratic challenges. In her last Senate race, she overcame a significant polling deficit to win by nearly nine points. Collins said regarding attack ads, “The people of Maine are smart, and they know lies and distortions when they see it.”

Paul Steinhauser, a politics reporter, covers the campaign trail from coast to coast and is based in the swing state of New Hampshire.