Maine Political Landscape Shifts as Governor Mills Exits U.S. Senate Race
The political terrain in Maine is undergoing significant changes with Governor Janet Mills deciding to withdraw from the U.S. Senate race. This development is pivotal for Democrats, who view the Senate seat as essential for capturing a majority.
SACHA PFEIFFER, HOST:
From NPR News, this is ALL THINGS CONSIDERED. I’m Sacha Pfeiffer.
SCOTT DETROW, HOST:
And I’m Scott Detrow. Governor Mills’ departure from the race positions Graham Platner, a rising progressive figure, as the likely Democratic nominee against Republican Susan Collins. For insights, we reached out to Maine Public’s chief political correspondent Steve Mistler in Brunswick. Hey, Steve.
STEVE MISTLER, BYLINE: Hey. How you doing?
DETROW: Governor Mills cited financial constraints for her decision to halt her Senate campaign. Despite being encouraged by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and supported by the political establishment, she struggled against Platner’s strong lead in funding, polling, and campaign momentum. Her campaign had ceased advertising efforts by mid-April, raising doubts about its viability.
MISTLER: Platner expressed gratitude towards Mills at an endorsement event, acknowledging their shared objective of unseating Senator Collins.
(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)
GRAHAM PLATNER: The race has never been about me or really about one person. It’s about a movement of working Mainers who are fed up with being robbed by billionaires and the politicians who own them. We are now taking back our power.
MISTLER: Senator Collins thanked Mills for her public service in a brief statement, recognizing the difficulty of her decision to withdraw.
DETROW: With Mills out, does this mean Collins will now focus on Platner, transitioning into the general election phase even before he officially wins the primary?
MISTLER: Yes, the shift is already underway. Collins and her Republican supporters are gearing up, with super PACs launching $2 million in attack ads against Platner. The race promises to see significant spending from both sides, with outside groups heavily influencing the outcome.
Though Platner still faces David Costello in the primary, Costello lacks the resources and polling strength to pose a serious challenge. Platner is also receiving backing from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, enhancing his campaign’s financial and strategic capabilities.
DETROW: Collins has maintained her Senate seat since 1997 despite being a frequent Democratic target. Given Platner’s limited political experience, what are his prospects in the election?
MISTLER: Although Platner’s political experience is limited to serving as harbor master in Sullivan, his campaign is gaining support from local Democrats. With the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee’s endorsement, Platner can leverage additional resources in the battle against the well-funded Republican machine, which has already allocated nearly $68 million for the general election ads, predominantly from Republican-aligned groups.
DETROW: Why is this Senate race drawing so much attention?
MISTLER: The Maine Senate race is crucial for Democrats aiming to gain a majority. With Collins’ approval ratings dipping, this seat is seen as a significant opportunity for a Democratic pickup. Without a win here, the path to a Senate majority becomes challenging. Furthermore, the race reflects broader divisions within the Democratic Party regarding its direction after the 2024 election.
DETROW: Steve Mistler of Maine Public, thanks so much.
MISTLER: Thanks, Scott.
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