Democrats Race to Replace Platner | 2026 Maine Senate Race

Last Update: 09/22/2026 at 11:35 PM EST

Coverage from Politico, Bangor Daily News, and others

Maine Democrats are competing to replace Graham Platner after his withdrawal and select a nominee to challenge Republican Sen.

Susan Collins. The compressed process includes a July 23 CNN-Bangor Daily News debate, candidate signature requirements, and a 601-delegate convention in Bangor on July 25. The crowded field is competing for Platner’s progressive supporters while emphasizing attacks on Collins and President Donald Trump.

Looking Back

2 Day Timeline

Articles published over time. Hover any bar for the period and its article count.

Jul 16

Jul 17

All Articles3 articles

Important3 articles · CI Score 60 and above

Politico / Will Steakin

Maine Senate Democrats Vie For Delegates After Low-Key Debates

Maine Democratic Senate mini-primary candidates sought delegate momentum over a weekend as debates and messaging targeted Susan Collins and Donald Trump, with renewed ICE focus after a Biddeford killing.

7/17/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General

Bangor Daily News / Michael Shepherd

Democratic Senate Candidates To Debate Before July 25 Convention

CNN and Bangor Daily News schedule a July 23 Democratic debate in Bangor ahead of the July 25 convention, where signature rules may narrow the Maine Senate replacement field.

7/16/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General

CNN / David Wright

Maine Democrats Set July 23 Debate Before Senate Nominee Vote

CNN and Bangor Daily News host a July 23 debate for Maine Democratic candidates replacing Graham Platner ahead of a July 25 delegate convention in Bangor.

7/16/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General