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Collins Defends Kavanaugh Vote, Faces Tight Reelection Battle

6/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Sen. Susan Collins said she does not regret her 2018 vote confirming Justice Brett Kavanaugh.
She criticized Kavanaugh’s 2022 decision allowing states to restrict abortion, noting Maine’s 2023 law expands access and that she had supported President Barack Obama and President Joe Biden nominees who upheld Roe.
Collins is seeking reelection in a close contest against Democratic challenger Graham Platner, a combat veteran and oyster farmer.

History

Historical Context

In 1973 the U.S. Supreme Court issued the 7-2 Roe v. Wade ruling, legalizing first-trimester abortions nationwide. The Court’s 2022 Dobbs decision overturned Roe, returning authority to states and reigniting partisan battles that framed Senator Susan Collins’s 2018 confirmation of Justice Brett Kavanaugh. Collins now warns that the 2024 Senate race will hinge on abortion and future Court appointments.

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Story summary

Sen. Susan Collins said she does not regret her 2018 vote confirming Justice Brett Kavanaugh.
She criticized Kavanaugh’s 2022 decision allowing states to restrict abortion, noting Maine’s 2023 law expands access and that she had supported President Barack Obama and President Joe Biden nominees who upheld Roe.
Collins is seeking reelection in a close contest against Democratic challenger Graham Platner, a combat veteran and oyster farmer.

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