Senator Susan Collins, Republican from Maine

Susan Collins

Senator · Maine · Republican

Susan Collins

Biography
Susan Collins began her public service career as a small business administrator in Maine, gaining firsthand experience with the challenges facing local employers. Elected as U.S. Senator for Maine in 1996, she has focused on strengthening healthcare access, supporting veterans, and promoting bipartisan solutions to national issues. Collins authored the 21st Century Cures Act to accelerate medical innovation and has served as chair of the Senate Aging Committee, advocating for seniors’ wellbeing. Known for her pragmatic approach, she represents Maine with a commitment to moderation and consensus-building, aiming to address her constituents’ needs with practical, sustainable policies.
Education
  • B.A., Magna cum laude, St. Lawrence University, Canton, NY
    1975
Professional History
  • U.S. Senator

    1997–Present

    Senator from Maine. 5 terms.

  • Founding Executive Director, Richard E. Dyke Center for Family Business, Husson College

    1994–1996

    Led the newly created center at Husson College in Bangor, Maine, after returning to the state.

  • Republican Nominee for Governor of Maine

    1994

    Ran as the Republican candidate in Maine's four-way gubernatorial election, becoming the first female major-party nominee for the office.

  • Deputy State Treasurer, Massachusetts

    1993–1994

    Served in the office of the Treasurer and Receiver-General of Massachusetts.

  • Regional Director, U.S. Small Business Administration, Boston Office

    1992–1993

    Appointed by President George H. W. Bush to lead the SBA’s regional office in Boston.

  • Commissioner, Maine Department of Professional and Financial Regulation

    1987–1992

    Appointed by Governor John R. McKernan Jr. to oversee state regulation of professional and financial services.

Policy Focus
Health18%
Education6%
Commerce6%
Armed Forces and National Security4%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Susan Collins's record in Congress.

  • Affordable Care Act Stabilization

    Secured funding for cost-sharing reduction payments to help stabilize health insurance markets under the Affordable Care Act.

  • Opioid Crisis Response

    Co-authored the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act to address opioid abuse prevention, treatment, and recovery programs.

  • Lifespan Respite Care Act

    Sponsored and passed legislation providing grants to improve respite care services for family caregivers.

  • Arctic Research Funding

    Secured federal funding for the construction of a new Arctic research vessel at the University of Maine.

Committee Assignments
View details →
  • Senate Committee on AppropriationsChairman
  • Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
  • Senate Select Committee on Intelligence

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