A poll released on June 30, 2026, shows a close race in the Maine Senate election, with Democratic candidate Graham Platner trailing incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins by 21 points among registered voters without a four-year college degree. The New York Times/Portland Press Herald/Siena poll indicates that Platner has 37% support compared to Collins' 58% in this demographic. The poll also reveals that Platner leads by 37 points among White college-educated voters but falls behind by 23 points with White non-college-educated voters.
Historically, Collins had a narrower lead of 48% to 45% against Democrat Sara Gideon among White non-college-educated voters in a September 2020 poll, indicating a significant shift in voter sentiment. Social media commentary suggests that Platner's image as an oyster farmer may not resonate with working-class voters, with some critics labeling him as inauthentic.
Ryan Girdusky, founder of the 1776 Project PAC, commented that Platner's persona does not align with the expectations of working-class individuals. Additionally, journalist Melissa Braunstein noted that blue-collar voters perceive him as disconnected from their experiences.
Platner's campaign has faced scrutiny regarding his claims of being an oyster farmer, as financial disclosures indicate he earns little from this occupation, relying more on veteran’s disability payments. His background, including attendance at private schools, has also been highlighted as a potential barrier to connecting with working-class voters.
The poll also reveals that only 44% of respondents view Platner as having good character, while 47% believe he is too extreme for Maine. Despite these challenges, Platner's campaign as a combat veteran aiming to oppose Trump and the establishment has garnered him a slight lead in the overall race, with 49% of voters supporting him compared to 54% who prefer a Democratic Senate majority. Collins faces concerns from voters regarding her support for Trump and her age.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the Platner campaign for comments regarding the poll results.