Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, confirmed she is running for a sixth term in a video announcement on Tuesday, Feb. 10, setting up what may be one of the most competitive and closely watched U.S. Senate races in the country.
The 73-year-old posted a 16-second video to social media of her unboxing a pair of New Balance sneakers.
"This is perfect for 2026, because I'm running," Collins said, holding up a gray running shoe. Boston-based New Balance recently opened a manufacturing location in central Maine.
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Collins' announcement was largely expected, though the race is expected to turn into one of the country's most closely watched during the midterm season. She is likely to face off against either Democratic newcomer Graham Platner or Democratic Gov. Janet Mills.
Mills has been backed by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-New York, while Platner has support from Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vermont. The pair are locked in a competitive primary battle for the chance to oppose Collins, and Democrats are hoping the seat will be one they can flip in their quest to retake the Senate.
Collins, a centrist Republican, has publicly disagreed with President Donald Trump on some issues but also provided a reliable Republican vote when the margin is slim. Polls have found her to be unpopular in her state, but she has proven resilient in elections: In 2020, when former President Joe Biden won the state by nine points, Collins defeated well-funded Democrat Sara Gideon by nearly as much.
According to the Federal Election Commission, Collins has the most cash on hand in the race with just over $8 million as of Dec. 31. Platner has about $3.7 million, and Mills trails with $1.3 million.
Kathryn Palmer is a politics reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at kapalmer@usatoday.com and on X @KathrynPlmr. Sign up for her daily politics newsletter here.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Moderate's last stand? Susan Collins seeks reelection after clash with Trump
