After nearly three decades in Washington, Republican Sen. Susan Collins has lost her seat to Democratic challenger Troy Jackson in Maine's 2026 midterm election.
Jackson defeated the five-term incumbent in one of the most closely watched Senate races of the election, bringing an end to Collins' long political career in the chamber. Collins conceded the race on Tuesday night, November 3.
"It has been the honor of my life to serve the people of Maine in the United States Senate," Collins said in a statement, reflecting on her 30 years in office. She also confirmed that she had called Jackson to congratulate him and promised to help ensure a smooth transition.
Jackson, 58, is a former president of the Maine State Senate and a fifth-generation logger from the small town of Allagash. His route to the Senate race was far from ordinary.
He entered the contest in July after the original Democratic nominee, Graham Platner, withdrew from the race following controversy over allegations made against him. Jackson had only about 100 days to build his campaign before Election Day.
During the campaign, Jackson focused heavily on the rising cost of living, healthcare and workers' rights. He also criticized Collins for her voting record and her relationship with President Donald Trump.
Collins, 73, had repeatedly won reelection in a state that has favored Democratic presidential candidates for decades. Her defeat marks a major change in Maine's political representation.
Jackson's victory also gives Democrats another important Senate seat as they work to strengthen their position in Washington.