Senator Susan Collins Announces 2026 Reelection Bid for Sixth Term

Nov 14, 2024, 07:12 PM

Senator Susan Collins of Maine has announced her intention to seek reelection in 2026 for a sixth term. Collins, a Republican first elected in 1996, has been a significant figure in the Senate, known for her moderate stance. Despite facing a challenging political landscape, including a state that President Harris won by 7 points, Collins remains a formidable candidate. In her last election in 2020, she defeated Democrat Sara Gideon by almost 9 points, even though Gideon outspent her by over $20 million. Senate Democrats view Maine as a key opportunity to gain a seat in their effort to overcome the minority, but Collins' decision to run again complicates their plans. Her reelection bid is seen as crucial for the GOP, as her departure could make it difficult for Republicans to retain her seat.