Multiple Democrats Enter Race to Unseat Senator Susan Collins

Multiple Democratic candidates entered the race for the U.S. Senate in Maine on July 9, 2026, following the withdrawal of primary winner Graham Platner. Platner suspended his campaign after a former partner accused him of rape, an allegation he denied. The Maine Democratic Party must name a replacement nominee by July 27 and plans to hold a 600-person convention by that date to select a candidate.

Nirav Shah, the former director of the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, launched a campaign positioning himself as an outsider to the political establishment. His platform includes advocating for Medicare for All, taxing billionaires, and reining in Immigration and Customs Enforcement. To build momentum, Shah announced a statewide town hall tour and reported strong initial fundraising pledges.

Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows also announced her candidacy, marking a second attempt to unseat incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins after losing to her in 2014. The Maine GOP criticized Bellows' entry, questioning why the election outcome would differ from her previous defeat. Former Senate President Troy Jackson has also entered the race, issuing fundraising appeals to supporters.

The race is expected to be highly expensive, with projected spending reaching nearly $500 million. The Democratic Party aims to maintain a progressive message while distancing itself from the allegations that ended Platner's candidacy.