Newsweek·October 14, 2026

Maine Senate polling as Susan Collins, Troy Jackson head to third debate

Debate clash

The latest debate produced one of the race’s sharpest exchanges, with Jackson criticizing Collins over her relationships with wealthy donors and technology companies. Collins responded by defending her independence and integrity.

Tight polling

Polling remains exceptionally close. A YouGov/CBS News survey put both candidates at 50 percent, while the RealClearPolitics average gave Jackson a narrow 1.2-point advantage.

Why it matters

The contest matters because Collins is a long-serving Republican incumbent in a state where Democratic voters are highly engaged. Jackson, a former Maine Senate president, is attempting to convert his state-level profile into a U.S. Senate victory.

What comes next

In-person absentee voting began October 5 and continues through October 29. The candidates were also scheduled for another debate hosted by the Portland Press Herald and NEWS CENTER Maine.

Read at Newsweek ↗Maine Senate winner? (Person)

Related stories

Maine Senate Winner 2026 Odds

Predict Market CapRead more

New polling shows Troy Jackson narrowly leading Susan Collins

MarketsPredictionRead more

AI predicts which of the potential 2028 presidential candidates could win

UNILADRead more

Pete Buttigieg signals 2028 Democratic presidential bid

ReutersRead more