Leading Republican Faces Challenging Re-Election News Following Actions Against President Donald Trump
Washington D.C. — A new poll from the University of New Hampshire Survey Center indicates that progressive activist Graham Platner holds a significant lead over Gov. Janet Mills in the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate seat in Maine currently held by Sen. Susan Collins.
The poll, released on Tuesday, shows Platner with 64% support compared to 25% for Mills among likely Democratic voters. An earlier poll in October 2025 showed Platner leading Mills by 58% to 24%. The latest survey also found that 71% of likely Democratic voters have a favorable view of Platner, compared to 51% for Mills.
The general election matchup projections show Platner leading Collins by 49% to 38%, while Mills and Collins are tied at 41% to 40%. Independents prefer Platner over Collins by 47% to 38%, but prefer Collins over Mills by 35% to 29%, with a notable portion of independents undecided if Mills is the nominee.
The midterm elections are viewed as critical for control of the Senate. Collins, a longtime incumbent, has raised $2.2 million in the last three months of 2025 and holds more than $8 million in cash on hand.
Platner has been described as a far-left candidate who has advocated for abolishing ICE, defunding the police, and has associations with democratic socialists. Mills has been criticized by Republicans for policies that have increased taxes and living costs in Maine.
The National Republican Senatorial Committee has characterized Mills as a “disaster” for Maine, citing higher taxes, rents, and grocery prices under her governorship.
Collins’ campaign has emphasized her long history of service and broad appeal in the state.
The race will be closely watched as both parties position themselves ahead of the 2026 midterms.
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