The Maine Senate race is currently competitive, with Republican incumbent Senator Susan Collins holding a slight lead over Democratic candidate Graham Platner, according to a Fox News statewide poll conducted from June 23-27, 2026. Collins has 50% support compared to Platner's 47% among registered voters in Maine. However, among voters who are extremely motivated to vote, Platner leads by 9 points, with 53% to Collins' 44%. The poll indicates that voter motivation is a significant factor in the race, with 76% of Democrats expressing high motivation compared to 61% of Republicans.
Concerns about both candidates are prevalent among voters, with more than half expressing doubts about Platner's judgment and a similar number believing Collins has been in office too long. Nearly 40% of voters are extremely worried about Platner's judgment, while 30% share similar concerns about Collins' tenure. Among independents, 33% are extremely concerned about Platner and 30% about Collins.
Collins' support is stronger among men, voters without a college degree, gun owners, and rural voters, while Platner is preferred by women, college-educated voters, suburban voters, and moderates. Both candidates have committed supporters, with about 80% of their backers indicating they are firmly committed to their choice. Inflation is identified as the most important issue for Maine voters, followed by political divisions, healthcare, and immigration.
In terms of personal ratings, Collins has a slightly negative rating (47% favorable, 50% unfavorable), while Platner's ratings are weaker, with 43% favorable and 53% unfavorable. The gubernatorial race also shows Democratic candidate Hannah Pingree leading Republican Bobby Charles by 11 points among voters, with a notable enthusiasm gap among motivated voters.