Maine Gov. Janet Mills plans Collins challenge | JQJO

Democratic Gov. Janet Mills will run for the U.S. Senate seat held by Republican Susan Collins next year, according to two people familiar with her plans, positioning Maine for a marquee contest. Democrats, including Sen. Chuck Schumer, urged Mills to run, eyeing Maine as the only 2026 GOP-held seat in a state Kamala Harris carried last year. Mills, barred from a third gubernatorial term, had recently said she was seriously considering a bid. Other Democratic challengers include oyster farmer Graham Platner, backed by Sen. Bernie Sanders, who criticized party leaders urging Mills to run.