Live updates: Graham Platner to skip Democratic Senate primary debates after Janet Mills drops out
The Portland Press Herald • • nation
Key Points:
- Maine Governor Janet Mills ended her U.S. Senate campaign, clearing the way for Graham Platner to likely secure the Democratic nomination and face incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins in November.
- Mills did not immediately endorse Platner but emphasized her continued support for Democratic candidates and willingness to observe Platner’s campaign, while Platner called for unity to defeat Collins.
- Republicans criticized both Mills and Platner, portraying Mills as out of touch and Platner as an extremist unfit for office, with national GOP groups highlighting controversies around Platner’s past.
- Prominent Democrats, including Sen. Bernie Sanders and state officials, praised Mills’ service and endorsed Platner as a progressive candidate focused on combating economic inequality and corporate influence.
- Both Collins and Platner quickly launched fundraising efforts following Mills’ exit, setting the stage for a highly competitive general election marked by stark contrasts in style and policy.
