Maine Governor Janet Mills has withdrawn from her Democratic primary campaign for the US Senate, citing a lack of financial resources. In a statement, Mills said she had the drive, passion, commitment, and experience to continue, but unfortunately, she didn't have the necessary funds.
Her exit has made it easier for Graham Platner, a veteran and oyster farmer, to run against Republican Senator Susan Collins in November.
Mills faced a tough money challenge from the beginning, with Platner raising $4.1 million in the first quarter, compared to Mills' $2.7 million, according to CNN.
By late March, Mills' campaign had stopped running TV ads, while Platner continued to advertise, according to NBC News.
A February poll by the University of New Hampshire found Platner far ahead of Mills, leading 64% to 26%.
Mills' age, 78, also became an issue during the campaign, with some Democratic voters unsure about her ability to serve a full term.
Now that Mills is out, Democratic leaders have quickly moved to support Platner, with Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand promising to help defeat Susan Collins.
However, Republicans have criticized Platner, with Tim Scott calling him a 'phony' and 'dishonest radical.'
