THE HALFAX HEIMDALL AUGUR

Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, heads to the chamber before votes on the immigration enforcement funding package, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, June 4, 2026. J. Scott Applewhite - AP Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — This election year is déjà vu for Sen. Susan Collins — the Maine Republican is running for reelection as Democrats pin their hopes on a new candidate to defeat her. Last time, it was state lawmaker Sara Gideon. This time, it's combat veteran and oyster farmer Graham Platner . But Collins has proven to be a hard target for Democrats over the years — even for candidates without the baggage of Platner, who has faced criticism for his relationships with women , inflammatory online posts and a previous tattoo recognized as a Nazi symbol. Collins is seeking her sixth term with sky-high name recognition, a record-breaking run of consecutive Senate votes and a history of bringing back federal funding for her state for years. She is also the rare Republican who sometimes can boost her own popularity back home by keeping her distance from…

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, heads to the chamber before votes on the immigration enforcement funding package, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, June 4, 2026. J. Scott Applewhite - AP Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — This election year is déjà vu for Sen. Susan Collins — the Maine Republican is running for reelection as Democrats pin their hopes on a new candidate to defeat her. Last time, it was state lawmaker Sara Gideon. This time, it's combat veteran and oyster farmer Graham Platner . But Collins has proven to be a hard target for Democrats over the years — even for candidates without the baggage of Platner, who has faced criticism for his relationships with women , inflammatory online posts and a previous tattoo recognized as a Nazi symbol. Collins is seeking her sixth term with sky-high name recognition, a record-breaking run of consecutive Senate votes and a history of bringing back federal funding for her state for years. She is also the rare Republican who sometimes can boost her own popularity back home by keeping her distance from…

Maine governor's race still up for grabs, new poll shows Maine governor’s race still up for grabs, new poll shows BY Susan Cover Maine PUBLISHED 10:24 AM ET Mar. 05, 2026 PUBLISHED March 5, 2026 @10:24 AM SHARE AUGUSTA — The race for governor continues to be wide open, particularly among the Democratic field, a new poll shows. Among seven Democrats, Angus King III and Dr. Nirav Shah each tallied 24% likely support among primary voters, with Hannah Pingree coming in at 18%, according to the Pan Atlantic Omnibus Poll released Wednesday. On the Republican side, which also features seven candidates, former Naval Intelligence Officer Bobby Charles garnered 26% support, followed by former Senate Majority Leader Garrett Mason at 11% and state Sen. Jim Libby at 8%. The pollsters noted in the Republican race, 44% of those polled indicated they were not familiar with all of the candidates. The crowded fields on both sides present a challenge for June 9 primary voters who will need to choose candidates to go on to the November election. It’s likely at least one independent — and potentially several more — could also appear on fall ballots for governor. Sen. Rick Bennett and Rep. Ed Crockett …

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

The 10 Senate races that will decide the balance of power in 2026 Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., are two of the most vulnerable senators up for re-election in 2026. Getty Images Share Add NBC News to Google Dec. 28, 2025, 5:00 AM EST By Bridget Bowman The fight for the Senate is expanding to a few more states next year, as both parties tout talented candidates and point to political dynamics tilting in their favor. Subscribe to read this story ad-free Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content. Democrats still face an uphill battle to net the four seats they need to take control of the Senate, which would involve winning at least two states that President Donald Trump carried by double digits in 2024. But they see a glimmer of hope following victories in the 2025 elections and as Trump’s approval rating, particularly on his handling of the economy, has dropped. And Democrats believe they can capitalize on issues such as high costs and health care, while Republicans continue to struggle to turn out Trump’s supporters when he is not on the ballot. Republicans, though, remain confident that they will hold onto the Senate —and potentially even grow…

Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, heads to the chamber before votes on the immigration enforcement funding package, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, June 4, 2026. J. Scott Applewhite - AP Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — This election year is déjà vu for Sen. Susan Collins — the Maine Republican is running for reelection as Democrats pin their hopes on a new candidate to defeat her. Last time, it was state lawmaker Sara Gideon. This time, it's combat veteran and oyster farmer Graham Platner . But Collins has proven to be a hard target for Democrats over the years — even for candidates without the baggage of Platner, who has faced criticism for his relationships with women , inflammatory online posts and a previous tattoo recognized as a Nazi symbol. Collins is seeking her sixth term with sky-high name recognition, a record-breaking run of consecutive Senate votes and a history of bringing back federal funding for her state for years. She is also the rare Republican who sometimes can boost her own popularity back home by keeping her distance from…

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Restless Democratic voters are challenging the party establishment | AP ... Graham Platner, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, takes a question at a news conference Thursday, April 30, 2026, in Lewiston, Maine. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty) Democratic Gov. Janet Mills, greets lawmakers prior to delivering her State of the State address, Jan. 30, 2024, at the State House in Augusta, Maine. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty, FIle) Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., goes over his notes before speaking to reporters following a closed-door party meeting, at the Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, April 21, 2026. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) Michigan State Sen. Mallory McMorrow, D-Royal Oak, a candidate for the U.S. Senate, listens to questions from the media during the Michigan Democratic Party State Endorsement Convention, Sunday, April 19, 2026, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Jose Juarez) President Donald Trump speaks with reporters before departing on Marine One from the South Lawn of the White House, Friday, May 1, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) NEW YORK (AP) — Maine just sent a blunt message to the Democratic Party’s national leaders. Democratic Gov. Janet Mills wasf…

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, heads to the chamber before votes on the immigration enforcement funding package, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, June 4, 2026. J. Scott Applewhite - AP Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — This election year is déjà vu for Sen. Susan Collins — the Maine Republican is running for reelection as Democrats pin their hopes on a new candidate to defeat her. Last time, it was state lawmaker Sara Gideon. This time, it's combat veteran and oyster farmer Graham Platner . But Collins has proven to be a hard target for Democrats over the years — even for candidates without the baggage of Platner, who has faced criticism for his relationships with women , inflammatory online posts and a previous tattoo recognized as a Nazi symbol. Collins is seeking her sixth term with sky-high name recognition, a record-breaking run of consecutive Senate votes and a history of bringing back federal funding for her state for years. She is also the rare Republican who sometimes can boost her own popularity back home by keeping her distance from…

Maine votes as scandal-ridden Graham Platner seeks Senate primary win <p>Oysterman and marine veteran favored to win Democratic primary amid a string of controversies</p><p>Voters are headed to the polls on Tuesday for primary elections that include a crucial Senate race involving the scandal-haunted <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/08/maine-primary-election-senate-graham-platner">Graham Platner</a>.</p><p>In Maine, Platner is favored to win the Democratic primary after his main opponent, former governor Janet Mills suspended her campaign. Incumbent senator Susan Collins remains safely at the top of the Republican ticket – just slightly behind newcomer Platner’s lead in polling.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/09/maine-senate-primary-graham-platner">Continue reading...</a>

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, heads to the chamber before votes on the immigration enforcement funding package, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, June 4, 2026. J. Scott Applewhite - AP Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — This election year is déjà vu for Sen. Susan Collins — the Maine Republican is running for reelection as Democrats pin their hopes on a new candidate to defeat her. Last time, it was state lawmaker Sara Gideon. This time, it's combat veteran and oyster farmer Graham Platner . But Collins has proven to be a hard target for Democrats over the years — even for candidates without the baggage of Platner, who has faced criticism for his relationships with women , inflammatory online posts and a previous tattoo recognized as a Nazi symbol. Collins is seeking her sixth term with sky-high name recognition, a record-breaking run of consecutive Senate votes and a history of bringing back federal funding for her state for years. She is also the rare Republican who sometimes can boost her own popularity back home by keeping her distance from…

Maine voters head to polls on Tuesday for closely watched primary election <p>All eyes on US Senate race as Graham Platner, embroiled in controversy, is set to advance as Democratic nominee</p><p>Voters in <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/maine">Maine</a> head to the polls on Tuesday for one of the most closely watched primary elections in the country. The <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/us-senate">US Senate</a> race has become a national fixation as Democrats try to unseat a longtime Republican with a political newcomer who has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/ng-interactive/2026/may/18/maine-senate-susan-collins">spent months under fire</a>.</p><p>Graham Platner, 41, is set to advance as the Democratic nominee for the Senate, after his primary rival – the state’s two-term governor, Janet Mills – <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/apr/30/maine-governor-janet-mills-drops-senate-race">suspended</a> her campaign in April. The primary result will likely set up a months-long run-up between Platner, an <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/aug/24/graham-platner-maine-senate-oysterman">oysterman</a> and marine veteran with …

Maine candidates fish, fret and spin results during a ranked-choice ... Politics Our political journalists are based in the Maine State House and have deep source networks across the partisan spectrum in communities all over the state. Their coverage aims to cut through major debates and probe how officials make decisions. Read more Politics coverage here . Sitting in third place in the tight Democratic gubernatorial primary , former Maine Senate President Troy Jackson has gone off the grid, fishing and spending time with family in Aroostook County for a long weekend with little to no phone service. Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, currently fourth but still with a shot to become the Democratic nominee, posted a Wednesday photo with her husband at an Augusta brewery . Former Maine House Speaker Hannah Pingree headed home with family in North Haven Wednesday after her primary party in Portland the night before. “Now it’s just a matter of patience,” Pingree spokesperson Mary-Erin Casale said. After a primary night without closure, several candidates aiming to replace Gov. Janet Mills are playing the waiting game, spinning the results and trying to relax at home with families after…

Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, heads to the chamber before votes on the immigration enforcement funding package, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, June 4, 2026. J. Scott Applewhite - AP Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — This election year is déjà vu for Sen. Susan Collins — the Maine Republican is running for reelection as Democrats pin their hopes on a new candidate to defeat her. Last time, it was state lawmaker Sara Gideon. This time, it's combat veteran and oyster farmer Graham Platner . But Collins has proven to be a hard target for Democrats over the years — even for candidates without the baggage of Platner, who has faced criticism for his relationships with women , inflammatory online posts and a previous tattoo recognized as a Nazi symbol. Collins is seeking her sixth term with sky-high name recognition, a record-breaking run of consecutive Senate votes and a history of bringing back federal funding for her state for years. She is also the rare Republican who sometimes can boost her own popularity back home by keeping her distance from…

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Shenna Bellows, Troy Jackson and Hannah Pingree form ranked ... Politics Shenna Bellows, Troy Jackson and Hannah Pingree form ranked-choice alliance in gubernatorial primary Maine Public | By Kevin Miller Published May 22, 2026 at 4:42 PM EDT Facebook LinkedIn Bluesky Email Robert F. Bukaty / AP A clerk hands a ballot to a voter on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022, in Lewiston, Maine. The state of Maine uses a ranked choice voting system for some of its election races. Three of the five Democrats running for governor have formed an alliance, of sorts, headed into next month's ranked-choice primary elections. The three candidates — Shenna Bellows, Troy Jackson and Hannah Pingree — announced on Friday that they would rank each other at the top of their ballots during the June 9 primary. And they urged their supporters to do the same. The trio have known each other for several decades. Pingree and Jackson served alongside each other in the Maine House as young legislators during the early 2000s before Pingree became House Speaker. Bellows was, by then, a familiar figure at the State House as executive director of the ACLU of Maine. And then she and Jackson ser…

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Maine Senate Primary Election 2026 Live Results - NBC News Republican Sen. Susan Collins, who ran unopposed, is the only GOP senator representing a state carried in 2024 by then-Vice President Kamala Harris, making her perhaps Democrats’ top target in the 2026 midterms after years of winning blue-leaning Maine. Democrat Graham Platner took control of the Democratic primary months ago, with Maine Gov. Janet Mills opting to suspend her campaign. The expected vote is the total number of votes that are expected in a given race once all votes are counted. This number is an estimate and is based on several different factors, including information on the number of votes cast early as well as information provided to our vote reporters on Election Day from county election officials. The figure can change as NBC News gathers new information. Source:Vote data via the Associated Press.Projections by the NBC News Decision Desk. Gray links are elections that haven't yet happened. Not every state will have a race for every office in the midterm elections.

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Maine counts ranked choice ballots to determine nominees for governor and a US House race Patrick Whittle Associated Press Published: June 12, 2026 at 1:41 PM Full Screen 1 / 3 Previous photo Next photo A Mainer reacts after his papers successfully dropped into to a ballot box while voting in the Maine Primary, Tuesday, June 9, 2026, in Augusta, Maine. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty) Mary Saunders gets help from election officials after picking up her ballots to vote in the Maine Primary, Tuesday, June 9, 2026, in Augusta, Maine. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty) Art Fairbrother casts one of his ballots while voting in the Maine Primary, Tuesday, June 9, 2026, in Belfast, Maine. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty) A Mainer reacts after his papers successfully dropped into to a ballot box while voting in the Maine Primary, Tuesday, June 9, 2026, in Augusta, Maine. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty) PORTLAND, Maine – Maine began counting ranked choice ballots on Friday to determine nominees for its open governor's office and a pivotal race for the U.S. House of Representatives. Results are expected sometime next week, the secretary of state’s office said. Recommended Videos Maine and Alaska use ranked choice…

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…

Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, heads to the chamber before votes on the immigration enforcement funding package, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, June 4, 2026. J. Scott Applewhite - AP Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — This election year is déjà vu for Sen. Susan Collins — the Maine Republican is running for reelection as Democrats pin their hopes on a new candidate to defeat her. Last time, it was state lawmaker Sara Gideon. This time, it's combat veteran and oyster farmer Graham Platner . But Collins has proven to be a hard target for Democrats over the years — even for candidates without the baggage of Platner, who has faced criticism for his relationships with women , inflammatory online posts and a previous tattoo recognized as a Nazi symbol. Collins is seeking her sixth term with sky-high name recognition, a record-breaking run of consecutive Senate votes and a history of bringing back federal funding for her state for years. She is also the rare Republican who sometimes can boost her own popularity back home by keeping her distance from…

Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, heads to the chamber before votes on the immigration enforcement funding package, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, June 4, 2026. J. Scott Applewhite - AP Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — This election year is déjà vu for Sen. Susan Collins — the Maine Republican is running for reelection as Democrats pin their hopes on a new candidate to defeat her. Last time, it was state lawmaker Sara Gideon. This time, it's combat veteran and oyster farmer Graham Platner . But Collins has proven to be a hard target for Democrats over the years — even for candidates without the baggage of Platner, who has faced criticism for his relationships with women , inflammatory online posts and a previous tattoo recognized as a Nazi symbol. Collins is seeking her sixth term with sky-high name recognition, a record-breaking run of consecutive Senate votes and a history of bringing back federal funding for her state for years. She is also the rare Republican who sometimes can boost her own popularity back home by keeping her distance from…

Now 82° Thu 91° Fri 96° byCORY SMITH | The National News Desk (TNND) —TheCalifornia governor's matchupis set for this fall's midterm elections. So are the matchups for the highly watched Senate races inMaineandTexas. But what are political experts watching for in the upcoming midterms? Three shared their thoughts with the National News Desk on Wednesday. “Here's my hot take,” saidTodd Belt, the Political Management program director at George Washington University. “It's all Senate races, because the California governorship is pretty much decided. You know, it's going to be (Democrat Xavier) Becerra, and it's not going to be close. ... And the Democrats are very, very likely to take the House of Representatives. At this point, I don't see any way that they don't.” Rice University political scientistMark Jonesalso said the battle for Senate control will be the story of the 2026 midterms. Jones, too, said it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Democrats will flip the House this fall from Republican control. Andhistoryis on the Democrats’ side, with the sitting president’s party losing seats in the House in eight of 10 midterm elections going back 40 years. Meanwhile…