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NewsFox News PoliticsMay 1, 2026United States

Maine Senate Race Update: Governor Mills Drops Out, Graham Platner Becomes Presumptive Nominee

Maine Governor Janet Mills has suspended her campaign for the U.S. Senate, leaving Graham Platner as the leading Democratic candidate. Senator Chris Van Hollen has publicly supported Platner despite controversy regarding his past online comments and a previously visible Nazi-linked tattoo.

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Why It Matters

The withdrawal of Governor Janet Mills shifts the Maine U.S. Senate race, making Graham Platner the presumptive Democratic nominee to challenge incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins.

Key Facts

  • Governor Janet Mills suspended her campaign for the U.S. Senate on Thursday, March 6, 2026.
  • Graham Platner is now the presumptive Democratic nominee for the Maine U.S. Senate seat.
  • Senator Chris Van Hollen endorsed Platner, citing his ability to appeal to blue-collar workers, labor groups, and Native American tribes.
  • Platner is a veteran of the U.S. Army and Marine Corps.
  • Platner previously had a chest tattoo resembling the Totenkopf, a Nazi-associated symbol, which he stated in October has been covered.
  • Platner has previously posted comments on Reddit identifying as a communist and criticizing police and rural White Americans, which he described as attempts to provoke reactions.
  • Platner has received an endorsement from Senator Bernie Sanders.
  • Platner's platform includes 'Medicare-for-all' and policies targeting the billionaire class.

Who's Mentioned

personJake Sherman“Punchbowl News reporter.”personChris Van Hollen“U.S. Senator from Maryland supporting Platner's candidacy.”personGraham Platner“U.S. Senate candidate and presumptive Democratic nominee for Maine.”personSusan Collins“Incumbent Republican U.S. Senator from Maine.”personBernie Sanders“U.S. Senator from Vermont who endorsed Platner.”personMohsen Mahdawi“Detained Columbia student mentioned in context of Van Hollen's past activities.”locationMaine“State where the Senate election is taking place.”personJanet Mills“Governor of Maine who suspended her U.S. Senate campaign.”personAnna Palmer“Punchbowl News reporter.”