A recent University of New Hampshire Survey Center poll shows 71 % of Maine voters believe Senator Susan Collins should not seek reelection in 2026, while only 21% support another term.
The call for her retirement spans party lines, with 84% of Democrats, 67% of independents, and 57% of Republicans agreeing. Collins, a moderate Republican, has served since 1996 and is known for bipartisan appeal.
Despite the poll, she announced in November her intent to run again, focusing currently on legislative duties. Her decision will significantly impact the 2026 Senate race, expected to be highly competitive in a politically diverse state that often favors Democrats but remains open to centrist candidates.
