Maine Gov. Janet Mills is interviewing staff members for a potential 2026 campaign for U.S. Senate, Punchbowl News reported, citing sources familiar with Mills’ plans.
The report came up Wednesday during a media gaggle after Mills toured the Sanford Regional Technical Center in Sanford. Mills did not confirm or elaborate on any plans with campaign staff and only reiterated she is “seriously considering a run.”
“That’s about it,” Mills said.
Mills first mentioned a possible Senate run in September and has said she plans to make a final decision by November.
Mills, 77, is the preferred pick of national Democrats to take on Collins, the 72-year-old Republican who would become Maine’s longest-serving senator if she wins a sixth term next year.
But to get there, Mills would have to compete with a growing field of Democratic challengers.
Those who have officially declared their candidacy include fashion designer Natasha Alcala; David Costello, a former deputy secretary of the Maryland Department of the Environment, and nominee for U.S. Senate in 2024; cybersecurity professional Tucker Favreau; Dan Kleban, co-founder of Maine Beer Company; Graham Platner, an oysterman and Marine veteran; and Jordan Wood, who was chief of staff to former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter, D-California.
BDN writer Billy Kobin contributed reporting.
