Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) announced Wednesday that she'll seek re-election for a fifth term in 2020, AP reports.
Why it matters: The campaign is projected to be one of the most expensive races in Maine history, as Democrats believe the centrist's seat is vulnerable.
- She said in an email to supporters that her "bipartisan commonsense approach" will be necessary in an era of bitter partisanship.
- Collins also faces a dramatic decision in the coming weeks on whether to vote to convict President Trump in a potential impeachment trial in the Senate.
What she's saying: Collins did not hint at how she might vote in her announcement email, but she did acknowledge the nation's divisive politics.
- "To say that these are difficult and contentious times is most certainly an understatement. But our country has confronted much more challenging times in our history."
- "The fundamental question I had to ask myself in making my decision was this: In today’s polarized political environment, is there still a role for a centrist who believes in getting things done through compromise, collegiality, and bipartisanship? I have concluded that the answer to this question is 'yes.'"
The state of play: The four Democrats currently vying for her seat include Maine House Speaker Sara Gideon, activist Betsy Sweet, attorney Bre Kidman and former Google executive Ross LaJeunesse.
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