Could the unique mechanics of ranked-choice voting and write-in candidates completely upend traditional campaign strategies in this high-stakes election?

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Yes, but probably at the margins rather than by overturning the basic Collins-versus-Jackson structure of the race. Maine’s ranked-choice system matters here because six declared write-in candidates have triggered it in the Senate contest. If neither Susan Collins nor Troy Jackson wins more than 50% on the first count, ballots for the lowest-performing write-ins are redistributed by voters’ next choices until one major candidate crosses a majority. That changes campaign incentives: both camps must think beyond core supporters and appeal to voters who may cast a symbolic write-in first but still rank Collins or Jackson second. The mechanics also create unusual risks. A voter who writes in someone not officially declared, including former Democratic nominee Graham Platner, is effectively casting a blank first choice in that race. If that voter ranks Collins or Jackson next, the ballot can still matter in a runoff count. That means voter education becomes a central campaign task, not just persuasion. Campaigns must explain who qualifies as a declared write-in and how to rank correctly. Still, the evidence suggests the write-ins are longshots, and polling shows this remains a very close two-candidate race. The bigger strategic effect is not that a write-in is likely to win, but that ranked-choice can shape tone, outreach and turnout. Collins has reason to protect her image as an acceptable backup choice for moderates and independents, while Jackson has reason to consolidate anti…

Susan Collins Seeks 6th Senate Term as Trump's Popularity Sinks in Maine

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Susan Collins Seeks 6th Senate Term as Trump's Popularity Sinks in Maine

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