Graham Platner, a 41-year-old oyster farmer and combat veteran, is challenging Democratic Gov. Janet Mills in the 2026 Maine Senate primary to unseat Republican Sen. Susan Collins. The progressive candidate has drawn national attention with strong fundraising, social media presence, and grassroots support amid frustration with the Democratic establishment. Mills, backed by party leaders like Chuck Schumer, positions herself as a tested moderate capable of defeating Collins.
In late January, Gov. Janet Mills outlined her strategy to defeat Sen. Susan Collins during a gathering in Brunswick, Maine, but questions quickly turned to her primary rival, Graham Platner. The Sullivan-based oyster farmer has emerged as a formidable contender, raising $7.8 million by December's end compared to Mills' $2.7 million, enabling early TV ads ahead of the June primary. An internal poll from Platner's campaign shows him leading Mills by double digits, bolstered by 283,000 Instagram followers—far surpassing Mills' 61,000 and Collins' 25,000—and a volunteer network of 15,000.
Platner, endorsed by Sen. Bernie Sanders, campaigns on progressive issues including Medicare for All, criticizing Israel's actions in Gaza as genocide, and advocating to abolish Immigration and Customs Enforcement. He led a January protest at Collins' Portland and Bangor offices against increased ICE activity in Maine, drawing supporters in freezing temperatures. Attendee Laura Neal praised Platner for offering "new energy," despite respecting Mills' accomplishments like expanding Medicaid and reproductive rights protections.
Mills, Maine's first female governor and a two-term incumbent, highlights her clashes with President Donald Trump, such as suing over withheld funding and securing transgender youth sports participation. She argues her statewide experience makes her the strongest against Collins, a five-term moderate. Political analyst Adam Cote noted Maine's history of electing moderates like Collins and Angus King in generals, though primaries may differ.
Experts like Mark Brewer from the University of Maine point out that progressive candidates have struggled statewide, with past nominees like Sara Gideon losing to Collins in 2020 despite heavy spending. Supporters of both candidates emphasize unity post-primary to flip the seat, but a contentious race could complicate efforts. Republican spokesperson Kristen Cianci described the contest as a battle between extremes.
