UPDATE: Republican Senator Susan Collins of Maine is facing a significant polling setback just ahead of her anticipated 2026 reelection bid. The latest data from Morning Consult reveals that only 38 percent of Mainers currently approve of her performance, marking a record low for the senator and raising alarms about her electoral viability.
As the 2026 midterms approach, Collins finds herself in a precarious position with 54 percent of voters expressing disapproval—an alarming high since the survey’s inception in 2017. This marks a stark decline from the fourth quarter of 2024, when 47 percent approved of her and 44 percent disapproved.
Why does this matter NOW? Maine has consistently favored Democrats in presidential elections since 1992, and with diminishing approval ratings amid President Donald Trump‘s administration, Collins is increasingly seen as vulnerable. Her ability to retain support from independents and moderate Democrats is pivotal for her chances in the upcoming election.
Morning Consult’s poll indicates that Collins is among four senators with negative approval ratings, alongside GOP senators Joni Ernst, Ron Johnson, and Mitch McConnell. This shift signals a possible blue wave as Democrats target her seat as crucial for regaining control of the Senate.
On the Democratic side, two candidates have already announced their candidacies: David Costello, who previously ran in 2024, and Jordan Wood, former chief of staff to Representative Katie Porter. Additionally, Governor Janet Mills has not ruled out a run, despite facing her own challenges with a narrow approval rating of +2, making her the least popular Democratic governor nationally.
Collins’ record in past elections reflects her moderate stance, which previously helped her secure reelection in 2020 against Democrat Sara Gideon. However, recent polling paints a grim picture: a University of New Hampshire survey indicates only 14 percent of Mainers view Collins favorably, while 57 percent disapprove.
“No one fights harder for Maine than Susan Collins,” said Nick Puglia, regional press secretary for the National Republican Senatorial Committee. “She continues delivering big wins like protecting Social Security for over 25,000 Mainers.”
As of now, Collins has not formally announced her reelection bid, but she did express her “inclination to run” in a CNN interview earlier this year. Political analysts, including Amy Walter of the Cook Political Report, are closely watching this race, noting the potential implications for the Senate landscape.
What’s next? Collins must navigate these declining approval ratings while preparing for a highly competitive race. The Cook Political Report categorizes her seat as “Lean Republican,” suggesting she retains an advantage, but the dynamics are shifting rapidly.
Stay tuned for further updates as the political landscape in Maine evolves and the 2026 midterms draw closer.
