Democrats Divided in 2026 Senate Primaries

Democrats Face Internal Divisions in Key 2026 Senate Primaries as Insurgents Challenge Establishment Picks

WASHINGTON - Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer's strategy to reclaim the U.S. Senate majority in 2026 is encountering resistance from within the Democratic Party, with progressive senators endorsing nonestablishment candidates in battleground states like Maine, Michigan and Minnesota. The rift highlights growing frustration among party members over traditional tactics following Donald Trump's 2024 reelection victory.

In Maine, the contest to challenge incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins has become a flashpoint. Schumer and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee have supported Gov. Janet Mills, a 78-year-old moderate seeking the seat after two terms as governor. However, Graham Platner, a 41-year-old military veteran and oyster farmer, has surged ahead in the Democratic primary. Platner launched his campaign last August with a message criticizing economic and political systems as rigged for the wealthy. He quickly secured endorsements from Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, as well as Sens. Martin Heinrich of New Mexico, Ruben Gallego of Arizona and Elizabeth...