Maine Gov. Janet Mills announced Tuesday she is launching her long-expected Senate campaign, giving Democratic leaders a major recruiting victory and kicking off one of the most contentious primary contests of 2026.

Why it matters: Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), who represents a state won by former Vice President Harris, is the top midterms target for Senate Democrats. • Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) encouraged Mills, a battle-tested two-term governor, to jump into the race. • Progressive Graham Platner, an oyster farmer and first-time candidate endorsed by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) for Collins' seat, has gained momentum on the left.

Zoom in: In a play to the Democratic base, Mills' campaign announcement video zeroes in on her recent clashes with President Trump. •

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