Platner Surges to 64% in Maine Dem Senate Primary as Mills Trails Big

Feb 25, 2026

The Left Put Its Faith in Graham Platner. Will He Break Its Heart?

In Maine’s closely watched U.S. Senate race, a new University of New Hampshire poll shows Graham Platner opening a commanding lead over Gov. Janet Mills in the Democratic primary. The numbers also suggest the Republican-held seat could flip in November.

The results raise immediate stakes in Portland, Bangor and across Maine, where Sen. Susan Collins is seeking reelection in a cycle that could determine control of the U.S. Senate.

According to the UNH Pine Tree State Poll conducted Feb. 12–16 among roughly 1,105 likely voters, Platner leads Mills 64% to 26% in the Democratic primary. In a general election matchup, Platner leads Collins 49% to 38%, while Mills trails narrowly at 41% to 40%.

The demographic splits add another layer of pressure for the Mills campaign, with Platner leading among Democrats, independents, men, women and voters under 65. Mills holds a small advantage among voters 65 and older.

“This poll shows Graham in a strong position heading into the final stretch before the primary,” a campaign spokesperson said.

The numbers mark one of the widest primary gaps in the race so far and signal potential vulnerability for Collins if Platner secures the nomination. Maine’s large bloc of independent voters could prove decisive in the general election.

With the June 9 primary approaching, fundraising, debates and turnout operations are expected to intensify statewide.

For now, the latest data reshapes the trajectory of one of Maine’s most consequential Senate contests in years.

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