A recent poll indicates that a majority of voters in Maine believe Senator Susan Collins should step down at the conclusion of her current term instead of pursuing reelection.
The survey, carried out by the University of New Hampshire Survey Center, revealed that 71% of Maine voters are against Collins running for another term, while 21% are in favor of her continuing in office. Senator Collins, who was first elected in 1996, has represented Maine for nearly thirty years and is recognized for her moderate stance in the Senate.
Analyzing the data, the poll reveals that 84% of Democrats, 67% of independents, and 57% of Republicans support her retirement. Although there are no term limits for U.S. Senators, Collins’ current six-year term is scheduled to end in 2026.
In spite of the polling results, Collins has stated her intention to seek reelection. In a statement made last November, she mentioned that her present focus is on legislative responsibilities, particularly the appropriations process, but confirmed her plans to campaign for another term.
Historically, Collins has been successful in appealing to a diverse array of voters across party lines, which has aided her in winning reelection in a state that frequently leans Democratic. Her ability to garner support from independents and some Democratic voters has been a crucial element in her political endurance.
Regardless of her decision to run, the forthcoming 2026 Senate race in Maine is anticipated to be highly competitive. Maine has shown a propensity to back candidates from both major parties depending on the political landscape, and many analysts predict that the seat will attract significant national attention.
Senator Collins has played a pivotal role in several key Senate decisions throughout her tenure, and her potential retirement or reelection campaign is expected to significantly influence the composition of the Senate in the upcoming term.
As voters in Maine contemplate the future, political analysts indicate that the state’s independent tendency will once more be a significant factor in influencing the results of the 2026 election.
