Explore the life and political journey of Susan Collins , a prominent Republican Senator from Maine known for her centrist approach and bipartisan efforts.
Early Life and Political Roots
Susan Margaret Collins was born on December 7, 1952, in Caribou, Maine. Raised in a family deeply involved in public service—both her parents served as mayors of Caribou—Collins was instilled with a strong sense of civic duty from an early age. Her father, a World War II veteran, also served in the Maine Legislature, further embedding public service into the family’s legacy. Graduating from Caribou High School in 1971, Collins went on to earn a Phi Beta Kappa degree from St. Lawrence University in 1975.
Ascending the Political Ladder
Collins began her political career working for Maine Representative Bill Cohen, who later became a U.S. Senator. She served as staff director of the Oversight of Government Management Subcommittee of the Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs. Her tenure in public service continued as she was appointed Commissioner of the Maine Department of Professional and Financial Regulation in 1987 and later served as Director of the Small Business Administration’s Regional Office under President George H.W. Bush in 1992. In 1996, Collins was elected to the U.S. Senate, succeeding Bill Cohen. She has since been reelected multiple times, becoming the first Republican woman to win a fifth term in 2020.
A Record of Bipartisanship
Throughout her Senate career, Collins has been recognized for her bipartisan approach to legislation. She has consistently ranked high on lists of most bipartisan senators, working across party lines to pass significant legislation in areas such as healthcare, small business development, education, and national defense. Notably, she played a pivotal role in the passage of the Affordable Care Act and has been a strong advocate for issues affecting seniors and veterans.
Recent Challenges and Political Landscape
As of May 2025, Collins faces a critical juncture in her political career. With the 2026 Senate elections approaching, she has announced her intention to seek a sixth term, making her one of the most vulnerable Republican incumbents. The political landscape has shifted, with increasing pressure from within her party and from the electorate for stronger stances on key issues. Critics argue that her reluctance to confront figures like Donald Trump and Elon Musk on certain policy decisions has undermined her effectiveness as a legislator. Despite her history of independence, her recent hesitations have raised questions about her future role in the Senate.
Personal Life
Senator Collins is married to Thomas A. Daffron, and they reside in Bangor, Maine, with their black lab, Pepper. Known for her Maine work ethic, she has cast more than 9,000 consecutive votes, holding the longest perfect voting record in the history of the U.S. Senate.
