Maine Governor Janet Mills abandoned her U.S. Senate campaign Thursday, citing insufficient fundraising despite backing from Democratic leadership. Her withdrawal positions Graham Platner, a political newcomer facing multiple controversies including past Nazi-style tattoo imagery, as the likely Democratic nominee against longtime Republican Senator Susan Collins in one of 2026’s most competitive Senate races.

Campaign Collapse Forces Democratic Switch

Mills, a two-term governor with endorsements from Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and major progressive groups, had been considered a top Democratic recruit when she entered the race last year. Her campaign struggled financially in a race Democrats view as critical for flipping the Senate, which currently holds 53 Republicans, 45 Democrats, and two independents who caucus with Democrats. Mills did not endorse Platner in her withdrawal statement, though other prominent Democrats have aligned with his campaign.

Platner’s Controversial Background Surfaces

Platner faces significant scrutiny over his record. Old Reddit posts show him self-identifying as communist and socialist while making derogatory comments about rural white Americans. He has also drawn criticism for using anti-gay slurs in past communications. The most damaging revelation involves a chest tattoo he received while serving with the Marines in Croatia that resembled Nazi imagery. Platner has since had the tattoo covered and explained it as a mistake from his military service years.

Mills Criticizes Republican Administration

In her withdrawal statement, Mills highlighted her gubernatorial achievements including expanded healthcare, fully funded education, free community college and school meals, protected reproductive rights, and climate change initiatives. She blamed the Republican administration for undermining these efforts, stating they remain blind to science, deaf to medical needs, and ignorant of regular families’ concerns. Mills emphasized she has the commitment and fight to continue but lacks the financial resources political campaigns demand today.

High Stakes for Senate Control

The Maine Senate race now puts Democrats in a difficult position, running a controversial newcomer against Collins, a well-established Republican incumbent. With the Senate closely divided and Democrats targeting this seat as essential for gaining control, Platner’s baggage complicates their strategy. The Associated Press reports the race quickly became a reflection of internal party debates over which candidates can win high-profile contests. Democrats must now defend their choice of a candidate whose past statements and imagery directly conflict with party values while trying to unseat a popular Republican senator.