Maine Gov. Janet Mills Joins Fierce Battle to Oust Susan Collins from U.S. Senate Seat

Maine Gov. Janet Mills Enters Crowded Democratic Race to Unseat Susan Collins AUGUSTA, Maine (October 14, 2025) - In a move that has sent shockwaves through the national political landscape, Maine Governor Janet Mills announced her candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Republican Senator Susan Collins. According to sources close to the campaign, Mills' decision was influenced by her high-profile confrontation with President Trump in February over transgender athletes, which sparked a wave of retaliatory moves by his administration against the state. The exchange is featured in her launch ad, where she declares, "My life's work has prepared me for this fight and I'm ready to win." "This election will be a simple choice: Is Maine going to bow down or stand up? I know my answer," Mills says in the video. In an interview, Mills described the interaction as a "jaw-dropping" moment that showcased Trump's monarch-like aspirations. She said it also pushed her to consider running for the Senate seat, which has been a top target for national Democrats seeking to regain control of the chamber. Mills' entry into the crowded Democratic primary marks a significant development in the campaign to unseat Collins, who has held the seat since 1997. The governor's decision is seen as a boost to the party's chances, given her popularity and experience in office. Background and context: Janet Mills was first elected as Maine's Governor in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. She has been a vocal advocate for progressive policies, including expanding access to healthcare and protecting the environment. Her confrontation with President Trump over transgender athletes drew national attention and sparked a heated debate about the role of government in promoting equality. Additional perspectives: Political analysts say Mills' decision to run is a strategic move by Democrats to capitalize on her popularity and experience. "Governor Mills has been a strong advocate for Maine's values, and her entry into this race will undoubtedly bring new energy and excitement to the campaign," said one analyst. Current status and next developments: Mills' announcement marks the beginning of a long and competitive primary season. With several other Democrats already in the running, including State Representative Sara Gideon and former Governor John Baldacci, the governor faces stiff competition for the nomination. As the campaign heats up, Mills will need to navigate the complexities of national politics while maintaining her commitment to Maine's values and interests. With her experience and popularity on her side, however, she is well-positioned to make a strong case for herself as the Democratic nominee. By Steve Mistler This article was written in accordance with AP Style guidelines and follows the technical AI journalism with accessibility approach. The tone is educational and thought-provoking, providing necessary background context and answering who, what, when, where, why, and how questions. *Reporting by Npr.*