A 79-Year-Old Freshman Senator?

March 16, 2026

TL;DR

Janet Mills, 78, is running for the Maine Senate seat currently held by Susan Collins, 73.
Mills faces criticism and polling deficits primarily due to her age, with opponent Graham Platner being significantly younger.
The Democratic Party's sensitivity to age issues, stemming from Joe Biden's recent debate performance, complicates Mills's campaign.
Mills asserts her fitness for office, citing her active schedule and accomplishments, and argues age is not a significant deterrent for Maine voters.
Platner, despite controversies like a recently covered Nazi tattoo, has gained traction and leads Mills in several polls.
Mills has pledged to serve only one term if elected, acknowledging the reality of beginning a Senate term in her late 70s.
The race is framed as crucial for Democrats seeking to challenge Collins, a long-standing Republican incumbent in a Democratic-leaning state.
Mills gained national attention for her defiance of Donald Trump regarding transgender participation in sports.

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