Summary
A new poll shows Republican Senator Susan Collins trailing a generic Democratic candidate by eight points in Maine's 2026 Senate race. Graham Platner, a military veteran and Democratic candidate, is currently leading among his party's contenders. The poll also highlights that federal health care premium tax credits could influence the race if Collins supports their extension.
Key Facts
- Susan Collins, a Republican, is the current Senator from Maine.
- A poll by Cygnal shows Collins trailing a generic Democrat by eight points, with 41% for Collins and 49% for a Democrat.
- Graham Platner, a Democratic candidate, is leading among declared Democratic candidates in recent polls.
- Platner has faced criticism due to past social media activity and a controversial tattoo.
- A public poll suggests Platner would win over Collins 44.8% to 40.9% in a direct contest.
- Collins could gain support if she backs the extension of federal health care premium tax credits.
- The Democratic primary in Maine is scheduled for June 9, 2026, and the general election will be on November 3, 2026.
- The Cygnal poll surveyed 600 likely voters with a margin of error of +/-4%.
