Changes in the Maine Senate Race. Did Collins dodge a bullet? S5E85 07.20.2026

Do you have a question or comment? Want to suggest a topic for our panel or be a guest on the Nova Society? Send us a message!Roberta from Bangor, Maine writes:  Susan Collins must live a charmed political life. For a moment, it looked like Democrats finally had a challenger who could seriously threaten her seat, and then, this past week, he’s out after yet another allegation of past sexual misconduct.  Democrats knew Platner was a flawed candidate, but they backed him anyway, and now they’re scrambling. It’s hard to feel sympathy when the crisis is one they walked straight into.  Unless Democrats regroup quickly and find someone who can speak to Platner’s base without carrying his baggage, it’s starting to look like Collins may glide back into office yet again.  And I have to say, I’m struck by the hypocrisy of some of my Republican friends who criticize Democrats for supporting a candidate with so much baggage, while conveniently ignoring the baggage their own President carries. So here’s my question for the panel: Is there a viable Democratic candidate who could step in at this point? Should the party look for someone who appeals to Platner’s supporters, or pivot to a more generic, “safe” candidate who historically doesn’t win here? And realistically, is Maine now a lost opportunity for Democrats this cycle?  Support the showThe Nova Society Podcast In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects, where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners. Our Buzzsprout Home Landing Page Direct SMS message to the podcast from the “message us” link on our page.Support the Nova SocietyEmail us your QuestionsSubscribe to the Nova SocietySubscribe to our RSS Feed Join Our Facebook Page & YouTube ChannelPast episodes & read our blog Here.JCISApple Podcasts/ I-Tunes   Spotify  ...