Maine Governor Janet Mills officially launched her campaign for the U.S. Senate on October 14, 2025, entering a crowded Democratic primary aiming to unseat Republican incumbent Susan Collins.
Mills, 77, is a two-term governor and considered the establishment favorite given her electoral track record and moderate stance.
The big picture: Her campaign strategy focuses on portraying Collins as an outdated defender of Donald Trump’s agenda. • Mills is the only Democratic candidate in the primary with prior election wins, highlighting her experience compared to more progressive challengers. • Progressive oysterman Graham Platner is Mills’ notable primary competitor; Platner has raised $3.25 million within six weeks and secured an endorsement from Senator Bernie Sanders, who criticized Mil