Maine Senator Susan Collins has publicly addressed a medical condition known as a “benign essential tremor” amid her campaign for a sixth term in the Senate. In an interview with News Center Maine, Collins explained that this condition, which causes involuntary shaking of the hands and other body parts, is common and does not affect her cognitive abilities. She sought to clarify the issue following the visibility of her hand tremors in a recent campaign advertisement.
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At 73, Collins has been a prominent figure in Maine politics since her election to the Senate in 1996. As she embarks on her re-election bid, she emphasised that she has lived with this diagnosis for several decades. In her remarks, she expressed confidence in her capability to perform her duties, stating, “It has absolutely no impact on my ability to do my job or on how I feel each day.” Although she reported that she takes medication for the tremor, specific details about the treatment were not disclosed.
Collins’ long-standing commitment to her role is evidenced by her notable voting record; she has never missed a vote since taking office. “If you talk to anybody in Washington, they will tell you that I am the hardest working person that they have ever worked with,” she added, underscoring her commitment to serving her constituents.
The Cleveland Clinic defines essential tremor as a movement disorder that results in uncontrollable shaking and underscores that it is not a life-threatening condition. The disorder is estimated to affect around 1% of the general population and approximately 5% of individuals over 60 years old. Collins reassured constituents that her condition does not hinder her ability to fulfil her responsibilities effectively.
Collins’ announcement comes as she faces a significant challenge in her upcoming election against Graham Platner, a 41-year-old oysterman and military veteran competing for the Democratic nomination. This election is anticipated to be one of the most fiercely contested Senate races in the country. Platner emerged as a strong candidate, gaining traction within the Democratic ranks and forcing the incumbent governor to withdraw from the race.
During his campaign, Platner has positioned himself as a candidate advocating for progressive policies and actively engaging with voters across Maine. In response to Collins’ campaign strategies, he has taken a critical stance, accusing her of being complicit with the Trump administration and not adequately representing the interests of Mainers. His campaign ads reflect a strong disapproval of Collins’ moderate policies, labelling her responses to significant issues as “weak condemnations.”
In addition to his political aspirations, Platner has shared personal health challenges stemming from his military service, including physical injuries and a diagnosis of PTSD. He has also openly discussed his and his wife’s struggle with fertility issues, which they have pursued abroad after discovering that their VA insurance coverage did not extend to the treatments needed in the U.S. Their recent tragedy of a miscarriage has driven home the emotional toll these issues take on families.
As the election draws nearer, recent polling suggests a competitive landscape, with some surveys showing Platner securing slight leads over Collins. With six months remaining before the election, both candidates are intensifying their outreach and campaign efforts to capture the attention and support of the electorate.
Susan Collins’ prominence as a moderate Republican has often allowed her to thrive in a politically divided Maine. However, the current climate may pose new challenges as the state leans purple, indicative of a fluctuating political landscape. Collins’ health disclosures might impact public perception as she continues to engage with voters in a race that promises to be tumultuous and indeed transformative for Maine’s political future.