Progressive oyster farmer Graham Platner has won Maine’s Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate, setting up a closely watched general election contest against longtime Republican Senator Susan Collins in November.
Platner secured a decisive victory, capturing nearly 78% of the vote to earn the Democratic nomination.
The issues drew criticism from political opponents and some Democratic figures, but ultimately did little to derail his candidacy.
The race now shifts to a high-profile showdown with Collins, a five-term incumbent who remains one of the most prominent Republicans in the Senate.
Collins has historically attracted support from moderate and independent voters, a constituency expected to play a critical role in determining the outcome of the election.
The contest is already shaping up to be one of the most expensive Senate races in the country.
Advertising commitments have reportedly surpassed $150 million, exceeding spending levels seen during Collins’ 2020 reelection campaign.
With independent voters making up a significant share of Maine’s electorate, both parties are expected to invest heavily in the race over the coming months.
Related Tweet:
Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner (D) plans to clarify that his campaign against Republican Sen. Susan Collins will be negative as he looks to cut into the incumbent’s standing with independents and Democrats, according to a speech obtained by The Post.…
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) June 10, 2026
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TIPP Staff
