Susan Collins, the senior U.S. senator from Maine, is next up for reelection in 2026, when her Class 2 term expires. She was last elected in 2014, reelected in 2020, and will serve until January 3, 2027 unless she wins a fifth term. In Maine, general elections are held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November; in 2026, that means November 3, 2026, with the primary typically in June. The following sections clarify her current term, past election dates, and what to watch for when she files for reelection.
Susan Collins Senate term dates and basic facts
Collins entered the Senate in 1997 and has since won four full terms. Her current Class 2 seat means the seat is on a normal six-year cycle. If she wins in 2026, she would serve her fifth term starting January 3, 2027.
Upcoming general election cycle
In 2026, Maine's Class 2 Senate seat is on the ballot. General election day is the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November, which falls on November 3 in 2026. The Maine primary typically occurs in June of the same year.
Candidate filing deadlines
To appear on the June primary ballot, candidates must file during the federal filing window, generally between late January and early March. If Collins runs, she will need to meet these federal and state filing requirements to secure her party's nomination.
Collins's electoral history in brief
Collins has run for the Senate five times. She first won in 1996, was reelected in 2002, 2008, and 2014, and won a fourth term in 2020. Her tenure spans multiple policy eras, and she has maintained a reputation as a pragmatic, independent-minded lawmaker. The table below summarizes when she was elected and when each term began and ended.
| Election year | Term start | Term end | Type of election |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1996 | January 3, 1997 | January 3, 2003 | General |
| 2002 | January 3, 2003 | January 3, 2009 | General |
| 2008 | January 3, 2009 | January 3, 2015 | General |
| 2014 | January 3, 2015 | January 3, 2021 | General |
| 2020 | January 3, 2021 | January 3, 2027 | General |
What to expect if she seeks reelection in 2026
At the time of this writing, Susan Collins has not announced whether she will run for a fifth term. When she decides, major announcements typically appear in news outlets and on her official campaign channels. Key milestones include candidate filing in the winter or early spring of 2026 and primary elections in June.
Maine primary and general election calendar
- January–March 2026: Federal candidate filing window; Collins would need to submit qualifying paperwork.
- June 2026: Maine primary; voters choose the party nominee if more than one candidate appears on the ballot.
- November 3, 2026: General election; the winner will serve from January 3, 2027 to January 3, 2033, if reelected.
Factors that could influence her 2026 decision
Incumbents weigh health, family plans, fundraising prospects, and political considerations before deciding to run again. Collins has emphasized a focus on constituent service and independence in her prior campaigns. Any final decision will depend on her personal circumstances and the political landscape closer to the filing period.
Key takeaways
Susan Collins is up for reelection in 2026, when her Class 2 Senate term ends. The Maine primary is likely in June 2026, with the general election on November 3, 2026. She has not yet announced whether she will seek a fifth term, but the timeline and processes are well established. If she chooses to run, the candidate filing window will open in early 2026.
Summary
Susan Collins is scheduled for reelection in 2026, with the primary likely in June and the general election on November 3, 2026. She will remain in office until January 3, 2027 unless voters choose a new senator. Track official announcements and the Maine Secretary of State's calendar for filing deadlines and final confirmation of her candidacy.
FAQ
Reader questions
When was Susan Collins last elected to the Senate?
Collins was last elected in 2020, with her current term beginning on January 3, 2021 and ending on January 3, 2027.
Is Susan Collins running in 2026?
As of now, Susan Collins has not announced a decision. When she decides, expect announcements in 2025 and official filing in early 2026.
What happens if she retires instead of running?
If Collins retires, Maine will hold a competitive open-seat election in 2026, with primaries for both parties and a general election in November.
Does Collins face term limits?
No. U.S. Senate terms are six years with no term limits; she is eligible to run again if she chooses.
Where can I verify election information?
For the most reliable updates, check official resources such as the Maine Secretary of State's election page, the U.S. Senate website for Collins, and verified campaign announcements.