Majority of Maine Voters Favor Retirement Over Reelection for Longtime Senator

A new statewide poll has revealed that most Maine voters would prefer Senator Susan Collins to retire when her current term ends in 2026, rather than seek another six-year term in the U.S. Senate. Collins, who has represented Maine since 1997, has long been regarded as one of the Senate’s most moderate and independent voices.

The poll, conducted by the University of New Hampshire Survey Center, found that 71% of Mainers believe Collins should step aside after her current term concludes. Only 21% of those surveyed expressed support for her running again. The data, which has been widely reported, reflects opinions across the political spectrum, including a notable share of Republican voters.

According to the breakdown, 84% of Democrats, 67% of independents, and 57% of Republicans say it’s time for Collins to retire. While there are no term limits in the U.S. Senate, the poll suggests growing public sentiment in Maine for political renewal and generational change.

A Senator with a Long and Influential Career

Senator Collins, 72, was first elected to the Senate in 1996 and has since built a reputation for breaking ranks with her party on key votes. Her independent stance has often positioned her as a pivotal vote on legislation, earning her both praise and criticism from across the political spectrum.

Over her career, Collins has served on several key Senate committees and has been actively involved in bipartisan negotiations on spending bills, healthcare, and judicial confirmations. Her approach to governance has won her crossover appeal in previous elections, often drawing support from independent and moderate Democratic voters.

Despite representing a state that tends to lean Democratic in presidential elections, Collins has consistently won reelection, including a notable victory in 2020, when she defeated Democratic challenger Sara Gideon with 51% of the vote.

Rising Speculation About 2026

Although her next election is more than a year away, attention is already turning to whether Collins will seek a sixth term. In a recent interview, she stated that while she is currently focused on her work in the Senate—particularly the appropriations process—her intention is to run for reelection in 2026.

Still, political analysts suggest that the growing call for retirement may signal a shift in public sentiment in Maine. If Collins does run again, the race is expected to be one of the most closely watched contests of the 2026 midterms. Maine’s unique ranked-choice voting system could also add an extra layer of complexity, as candidates need to secure a majority to win outright.

In 2020, this system played a crucial role in the election results, as Collins narrowly avoided a runoff by securing just over 50% of the vote. If a similar dynamic occurs in 2026, ranked-choice voting could prove pivotal, especially if more than two candidates are in the race.

The Larger Senate Map

Beyond Maine, both major parties are preparing for a challenging and competitive 2026 Senate map. While Republicans will be defending several seats in traditionally red states, Democrats are eyeing Maine, North Carolina, and a few other states as potential pickup opportunities.

North Carolina, in particular, is seen as a priority for Democrats, despite the state’s recent Republican-leaning results. Other states like Alaska, Iowa, Texas, and Ohio are also on the radar, but present tougher terrain given recent voting patterns.

Analysts note that the national political climate in 2026 could greatly impact the outcome in Maine. Midterm elections often reflect public attitudes toward the sitting president, and shifts in voter engagement can have significant consequences for down-ballot races.

Looking Ahead

If Senator Collins decides to seek reelection, she will likely campaign on her record of independence and her efforts to bring bipartisan solutions to Washington. Her supporters often point to her experience, her ability to work across the aisle, and her consistent presence in Maine politics for nearly three decades.

Meanwhile, potential challengers may focus on the state’s desire for new leadership and point to polling data that suggests voters are ready for a fresh voice in the Senate.

Regardless of whether Collins runs, Maine’s 2026 Senate race is shaping up to be a key contest that could influence the balance of power in Washington. As voters weigh experience against change, the outcome may offer broader insight into the future direction of American politics.

For now, Senator Collins continues to serve, emphasizing her focus on current legislative priorities while Maine—and the nation—watches closely to see what decision she makes in the months ahead.