BANGOR, ME

Republican Senator Susan Collins suspects that her possible Democratic opponent in the upcoming midterm elections, Graham Platner, is too far left for voters in Maine. In contrast, Platner argues that Collins, known for her moderate stance, is the real “radical” for advocating economic populist policies aimed at curbing corporate influence and supporting working-class interests.

With backing from notable figures like Senator Bernie Sanders, Platner aims to challenge Collins, who has held her Senate seat for a long time, alongside a coalition including Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Representative Ro Khanna of California.

This election is one of several pivotal races that could affect whether Republicans maintain their slender majority in the Senate. Recently, oyster farmers in the area have also been caught up in their own controversies.

It’s a critical moment for Graham Platner as he faces scrutiny.

While Collins has mostly refrained from direct criticism of Platner’s actions, she is paying attention to his platform. Platner’s campaign makes strong claims, such as a push for a constitutional amendment to prevent billionaires from influencing elections. He also identifies himself as a staunch advocate for Medicare for All, coupled with a desire for citizenship pathways and an end to mass deportations.

“I think that’s the bottom line,” Collins stated in a recent interview when asked if Platner is too progressive for northern New England voters. “But obviously, I don’t take anything for granted,” she added, indicating the unpredictable nature of electoral outcomes.

Platner, on the other hand, believes Collins’ policies are the ones that are truly extreme. He explains, “We’re trying to reduce costs for workers in Maine, ensure housing affordability for young people, and prevent the healthcare system from benefiting CEOs at the expense of ordinary citizens.” He insists that his views resonate with most Mainers. “It’s not radical,” he says, asserting that it’s about common sense.

In fact, he claims that the true radicals are individuals like Collins, pointing out that she has, for years, backed policies favoring corporations and billionaires, often at the expense of workers. “She voted to send me to Iraq and continues to support military actions abroad. I think that’s far more radical,” Platner contended, emphasizing his commitment to a more equitable health care system.

Despite some controversies, Platner has attracted sizeable crowds and garnered significant fundraising support.

Democrats are eager to reclaim the Senate majority come fall and view Maine as a critical opportunity in the 2026 midterms. However, defeating Collins, who is running for a sixth term and has often gone against the grain of President Trump’s policies, poses a significant challenge. Remember, just six years ago, she surprised many by winning re-election against then-Democratic state House Speaker Sarah Gideon, despite being behind in the polls.