CBS News poll finds voters split on state v. national focus in tied Maine Senate race
Updated on: October 2, 2026 / 10:10 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- The Maine Senate race is tied between incumbent Republican Susan Collins and Democrat Troy Jackson.
- Collins is attracting voters who prioritize state issues over national politics, and even some Democrats.
- Jackson's base includes voters opposed to President Trump, tariffs, or those seeking change.
- Collins has an advantage in voters' perception of who would bring more federal funds to Maine.
- A notable percentage of voters (10%) are undecided and could still change their minds.
- Maine voters generally feel Trump's policies have hurt the state's economy, favoring Jackson on this point.
- Collins performs well with voters who have supported her multiple times previously.
- There is some dissatisfaction among Democrats and independents with Jackson as the nominee.