Susan Collins's decade of political shifts regarding Donald Trump

A retrospective analysis examines the evolving political relationship between Senator Susan Collins and Donald Trump over the last decade. In 2016, Collins publicly stated she would not vote for Trump, citing his lack of temperament, self-discipline, and inclusive approach to governing.

Following Trump's victory and subsequent impeachment proceedings, Collins's positions shifted in response to the changing political climate and the necessity of surviving primary challenges. While she voted not to convict during his first Senate trial in 2020, she voted to convict during the second trial following the events of January 6, 2021.

As Trump returns to the presidency, Collins faces upcoming reelection in 2026, once again navigating the tension between her political relationship with Trump and her obligations to the citizens of Maine.