Key facts
- Graham Platner leads Susan Collins 49% to 47% in Maine's U.S. Senate race, within the poll's margin of error.
- The poll surveyed 608 likely voters between June 19-26.
- Voters cited the economy, congressional control, and candidate character as top issues.
- Both candidates have a 50% unfavorable rating, with Collins holding a slight favorability edge.
- Independent voters, a significant bloc in Maine, prefer Platner.
The race for Maine's U.S. Senate seat is nearly even, with Democratic candidate Graham Platner holding a slight lead over Republican Senator Susan Collins, according to a New York Times/Portland Press Herald/Siena poll. Platner leads 49% to 47%, a margin within the poll's +/- 4.8 percentage point error.
The poll of 608 likely voters, conducted between June 19-26, indicates a tight contest approximately four months before the general election. Voters identified the economy, control of Congress, and candidate character and competence as their primary concerns.
Maine is a key state in the national effort for Democrats to gain control of the Senate, as Collins is the sole Republican senator in a state that voted for Democrats in the last presidential election. Despite discussions of Collins' unpopularity, the poll found both candidates were viewed unfavorably by 50% of respondents, though Collins had a slightly higher favorability rating at 48% compared to Platner's 45%.
Many voters appear to have already decided, with 80% stating they will definitely vote for their chosen candidate. Independent voters, who constitute nearly a third of Maine's electorate, show a preference for Platner, leading Collins 51% to 45%. Platner also holds an advantage among college-educated voters, while Collins leads among those without a college degree.
Supporters of Platner, a combat veteran and oyster farmer, are drawn to his progressive, economic populist platform, including promises to address wealth disparity and break up monopolies. However, some Democrats, like retired nurse Cindy Foss, express reservations about Platner's demeanor and plan to support Collins, citing her experience. Conversely, Democrat David Glaser supports Platner, emphasizing his focus on wealth inequality.