politics
Maine Gov. Janet Mills Suspends U.S. Senate Campaign
Gov. Janet Mills suspended her campaign for the U.S. Senate in Maine on or before April 30, 2026, handing the Democratic nomination to Graham Platner. The move, backed by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, has divided Democrats amid a favorable 2026 midterm environment. The race remains critical to Democratic efforts to reclaim the Senate majority.
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Maine Governor Janet Mills announced on April 30, 2026, that she is suspending her campaign for the U.S. Senate seat held by Republican Senator Susan Collins. In a statement released by her office, Mills said, "After careful consideration, I have decided to suspend my campaign for the United States Senate.
" The announcement clears the way for Graham Platner, a 41-year-old Marine and Army veteran who operates an oyster farm, to become the Democratic nominee without a primary contest.
Mills, a two-term Democratic governor, had entered the race with backing from Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. According to a Politico report citing Democratic sources, Schumer had encouraged Mills to run, viewing her as a strong establishment candidate in the blue-leaning state.
The Maine Senate race is considered one of the top targets for Democrats in the 2026 midterms, as they aim to flip four Republican-held seats to regain the majority. Collins, who has represented Maine since 1997 and chairs the Senate Appropriations Committee, has won reelection in multiple cycles despite the state's Democratic tilt.
Polls cited in sources, including a survey from the University of New Hampshire released in March 2026, showed Platner leading Mills among likely Democratic primary voters by 12 points, with Platner at 45% and Mills at 33%. Another poll from Emerson College in April 2026 indicated Platner performing better against Collins in a general election matchup, with Platner trailing Collins by 4 points compared to Mills trailing by 8 points.
Platner, who has built a following through digital outreach and public events, has emphasized economic populism. " Progressive groups have supported his candidacy.
Republican groups have criticized Platner's background.
Democratic reactions vary. Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania told reporters, "Democrats really like Platner in Maine but Republicans love him. " No official statement from Senate Minority Leader Schumer's office on Mills's withdrawal was available in the sources as of May 1, 2026.
