Susan Collins to Campaign With Joe Manchin in Maine
The Republican senator will join the independent for a campaign event this Wednesday in central Maine.
Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Elections
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Republican incumbent Susan Collins and independent Senator Joe Manchin will hold a campaign event in central Maine on October 21, 2026. Collins is currently seeking a sixth term in office in a race against Democratic candidate Troy Jackson.
Why it matters
The visit highlights the ongoing campaign strategies as both parties vie for control of the U.S. Senate in the upcoming midterm elections. Joe Manchin, who previously served as a Democrat for over 14 years before becoming an independent, has formally endorsed Collins in this election cycle.
Susan Collins is campaigning for her sixth term in the U.S. Senate, while Joe Manchin concludes his career after serving more than 14 years as a Democrat. The control of the Senate chamber remains subject to the results of the November 2026 midterms.
The players
Susan Collins
She is the Republican incumbent Senator for Maine who is running for a sixth term.
Joe Manchin
He is an independent senator who served as a Democrat for over 14 years before becoming an independent.
Troy Jackson
He is the Democratic candidate challenging Susan Collins for the Maine Senate seat.
The details
Joe Manchin, who recently transitioned to an independent status, is traveling to Maine this week to demonstrate his support for Collins. The appearance serves as a high-profile endorsement for the incumbent as she faces Democratic challenger Troy Jackson.
Timeline
October 21, 2026: Collins and Manchin appear at a central Maine event.
October 2026: Joe Manchin endorsed Susan Collins.
November 2026: The 2026 midterm elections take place.
Political Context
This campaign appearance reflects broader efforts by Senate candidates to secure bipartisan or independent support in swing-potential races. Opposition groups argue that such alliances signal a departure from party platforms in an attempt to capture moderate voters.
Voters in Maine will see increased campaign activity as both candidates make their final arguments before the November election. This event may provide residents with more insight into the policy priorities of the incumbent during the final weeks of the race.
The takeaway
The presence of a high-profile independent endorser underscores the competitive nature of this seat during the midterm season. Residents should track upcoming local campaign appearances to understand how candidates are addressing regional issues.
Further reading
For more updates on this race, visit Maine Elections.
Live Poll
Do you find bipartisan campaign appearances helpful when deciding who to support in a Senate race?
