VASSALBORO, Maine — During a stop in Vassalboro Friday, Sen. Susan Collins confirmed her intention to run for a sixth term in the U.S. Senate in 2026.
However, Collins emphasized that her current focus remains on her work as a member of the powerful Appropriations Committee. With Republicans regaining control of the Senate, she said she expects to assume the role of committee chair, a position that plays a critical role in federal funding decisions.
Collins addressed her recent comment of President-elect Donald Trump’s selection of Matt Gaetz as Attorney General. She described the choice as “shocking,” due to serious allegations against Gaetz. They include alleged sex trafficking and drug use crimes.
Collins also noted that it would be premature to take positions on any of Trump’s cabinet picks before the confirmation process begins.
Maine's senior senator also reacted to Trump's team skipping FBI background checks for some of his nominees. “The FBI has extensive experience in doing background checks on nominees. This has been the standard procedure for a very long time, and I expect this is what the Senate will want to see,” she said.
President-elect Trump also announced a new Department of Government Efficiency, which aims to reduce unnecessary federal spending. Collins expressed optimism about its potential, particularly given the involvement of Elon Musk.
“I’m looking forward to hearing the recommendations of this new commission that Elon Musk will be involved with. Coming from the private sector, I’m sure he will have a lot of great ideas for us to consider,” Collins said.
When asked how she plans to work with another Trump administration, Collins reiterated her dedication to representing Maine’s interests saying it's her job to look out for the interests of Mainers regardless of who is president.