Maine Gov. Janet Mills announced Thursday that she is suspending her campaign for the Democratic nomination in the U.S. Senate race. In a statement, she cited a lack of financial resources as the key reason, despite her strong personal commitment to the contest.

"While I have the drive and passion, commitment and experience, and above all else – the fight to continue, I very simply do not have the one thing that matters most in modern politics: the financial resources necessary to compete and win," Mills said. She added that she still believes defeating incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins is possible, but emphasized the fundraising gap as insurmountable.

Mills' withdrawal comes weeks before the June 9 Democratic primary, where she trailed challenger Graham Platner, an oyster farmer and political newcomer who has surged in popularity among progressive voters. Recent polls, including one from Emerson College in March, showed Platner leading Mills by double digits in the primary matchup. Another survey from the University of New Hampshire in February confirmed Platner's advantage.

The race is for Collins' seat, which she has held since 1997 and defended successfully in 2020 despite Maine's leftward shift. Collins remains a formidable incumbent, consistently ranking high in popularity in the state. Her potential general election matchup against Platner could favor the Republican, as analysts note the Democrat's insurgent appeal may not translate against the seasoned senator.

Mills launched her Senate bid earlier this year, positioning herself as a battle-tested leader with gubernatorial experience to take on Collins. However, Platner's grassroots energy and criticism of establishment figures like Mills gained traction amid Democratic infighting. The primary contest highlighted tensions between the party's moderate wing, represented by Mills, and its progressive base.

Collins responded to the news, expressing respect for Mills while reiterating her focus on serving Maine. Platner celebrated the development, announcing new endorsements and framing it as a victory for fresh leadership.

The 2026 Senate map is pivotal for both parties' control of the chamber, with Maine's contest rated as highly competitive by forecasters. Mills' exit simplifies the Democratic path but hands Collins a potentially less experienced opponent in the fall.