Maine Gov. Janet Mills Joins Senate Fray, Takes Aim at Susan Collins Seat

Maine Gov. Janet Mills Enters Crowded Democratic Race to Unseat Susan Collins AUGUSTA, Maine - In a move that has sent shockwaves through the nation's capital, Maine Governor Janet Mills announced her candidacy for the U.S. Senate on Tuesday, aiming to unseat Republican Senator Susan Collins in the 2026 election. Mills' decision to enter the crowded Democratic primary was met with enthusiasm from party leaders and supporters, who see her as a strong contender against Collins, a three-term incumbent. According to sources close to Mills, she was recruited by Democratic Senate leaders after her high-profile confrontation with President Donald Trump in February over transgender athletes. The exchange, which triggered a wave of retaliatory moves by the administration against Maine, is featured in her launch ad. "My life's work has prepared me for this fight and I'm ready to win," Mills says in the video. "This election will be a simple choice: Is Maine going to bow down or stand up? I know my answer." In an interview, Mills described the interaction with Trump as a "jaw-dropping" moment that showcased his "monarch-like aspirations." She said it also pushed her to take on a new challenge and run for the Senate. Background and context: Mills has been serving as Maine's governor since 2019 and has gained national attention for her progressive policies, including expanding Medicaid and implementing stricter gun control laws. Her decision to enter the Senate race marks a significant shift in her career, but one that many see as a natural progression given her strong track record. Additional perspectives: While some have questioned Mills' chances against Collins, who has built a reputation as a moderate Republican, others believe she has a strong shot at winning. "Janet Mills is an exceptional leader with a proven track record of getting things done," said Maine Democratic Party Chairman, Kathleen Marra. "She's got the experience, the expertise, and the passion to take on Susan Collins and win." Current status and next developments: Mills' entry into the Senate race has set off a flurry of activity among Democrats, with several other candidates already announcing their candidacy. The primary is expected to be hotly contested, but Mills' strong start has many believing she's got what it takes to take down Collins. As the 2026 election season heats up, one thing is clear: Janet Mills is ready for the challenge and will stop at nothing to unseat Susan Collins and represent Maine in the U.S. Senate. By the numbers: 2026: The year of the next U.S. Senate election 3: The number of terms Senator Susan Collins has served 2019: The year Janet Mills became Governor of Maine 1: The number of Democratic candidates already announced for the primary Sources: Steve Mistler, Politics Robert F. Bukaty/AP *Reporting by Npr.*