Graham Platner, a former Marine, military contractor, small businessman, and oyster farmer, is running as a Democrat to unseat Maine Sen. Susan Collins (R) in the 2026 election. Platner is advocating for significant changes to the U.S. Supreme Court, arguing that it has become a “political action wing” of conservatism and requires structural reforms. In a recent campaign video and remarks in Skowhegan, Maine, he urged Democrats to leverage Senate power fully if they regain the majority to impose reforms on what he views as an ideologically driven judiciary.
Platner’s proposals include expanding the Supreme Court, implementing stricter ethics oversight, and creating new Senate rules to hold justices accountable. He suggested that if justices were held to the same ethical standards as other federal judges, at least two current justices could face impeachment and removal. While critics have labeled him a socialist or communist, these attacks have not hindered his campaign momentum. Polling by RealClearPolitics shows Platner leading Collins by 4.8 points and ahead in the Democratic primary field.
Sen. Collins, a centrist Republican known for strong performances in competitive races, faces a challenging reelection campaign. The 2026 contest is expected to be highly competitive and attract substantial national attention and funding. A Cygnal poll reported by Politico indicated that Collins trails a generic Democratic candidate 49% to 41%, although she historically outperforms baseline GOP numbers in head-to-head contests, reflecting her enduring appeal among moderate voters.
Policy positions such as supporting an extension of Affordable Care Act tax credits could improve Collins’ standing with swing and moderate voters. She has indicated support for extending the subsidies but emphasized the need for broader healthcare reforms, according to CBS News. As the race unfolds, Platner’s court reform agenda and Collins’ centrist approach are likely to be central issues in a high-profile and closely watched Senate contest.
