A new poll from the Maine People’s Resource Center (MPRC) shows Democrat Graham Platner leading Republican Senator Susan Collins by 9 points in the general election, with 48% to Collins’ 39%. The same poll indicates Platner holds a 33-point lead over Governor Janet Mills in the Democratic primary, 61% to 28%. The survey of 1,168 likely voters, conducted March 20–31, has a margin of error of plus or minus 2.9 percentage points.
An Emerson College poll, conducted March 21–23 among 1,075 likely voters, also found Platner leading Collins 48% to 41% in a general election matchup. Separately, the Emerson poll showed Mills leading Collins 46% to 43% in a hypothetical general election contest.
Collins, a five-term senator and the last Republican in New England’s congressional delegation, has historically relied on crossover support in a state that has voted Democratic in recent presidential elections. Platner, an oyster farmer and progressive Democrat, has faced scrutiny over past online comments but maintains a fundraising advantage, raising $7.8 million in 2025 compared to Mills’ $2.7 million. Mills reported $2.6 million in the first quarter of 2026, while Platner’s latest figures are pending.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) recruited Mills to challenge Collins, citing her centrist record as governor. However, Mills’ primary lead over Platner has narrowed significantly, raising questions about Democratic strategy in the race. Mills has dismissed suggestions of dropping out, releasing a 19-page policy platform this week.
The race is closely watched as Democrats aim to flip GOP-held seats to retake the Senate. Collins’ vulnerability could impact the broader midterm landscape, with national spending expected to surge in the coming months.