Susan Collins says Graham Platner is too far left for Maine voters

Republican Sen. Susan Collins is portraying Democratic Senate challenger Graham Platner as too extreme for Maine voters as the state’s 2026 election campaign takes shape in Bangor, Maine. Platner, who has drawn backing from progressive figures including Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, and Ro Khanna, is campaigning on proposals such as Medicare for All, tighter rules on billionaire spending in elections, and a path to citizenship for migrants. He says his message is focused on lowering costs, expanding housing access, and protecting working people. The race is expected to be one of the most important Senate contests in the midterms, with control of the chamber at stake. Collins, who is seeking another term, remains a challenging target for Democrats despite recent scrutiny of Platner’s campaign and the strong fundraising and crowd support he has built.