<p>Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) will not attend the upcoming Republican midterm convention in Dallas, scheduled for next week. A source familiar with the situation confirmed her absence, stating, "She won’t be at the convention. It’s long been her practice not to attend conventions when she’s in cycle. She’ll be in Maine." Collins has a history of avoiding political events to maintain her perfect voting attendance record since her election to the Senate in 1997.</p>
<p>The Senate will not be in session during the convention week. Collins recently opted out of Vice President JD Vance's rally in Brewer, Maine, due to prior commitments. She joins other Republican candidates, including former New Hampshire Senator John Sununu, who is also not expected to attend the convention. A source confirmed that Sununu is currently not scheduled to attend, as his Republican primary for New Hampshire’s open Senate seat against former Massachusetts Senator Scott Brown is set for the day before the convention begins on September 9.</p>
<p>Additionally, the NFL's opening game of the 2026 regular season between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots coincides with Vice President JD Vance's opening-night convention address, presenting another scheduling conflict. On September 10, the San Francisco 49ers will face the Los Angeles Rams, during which President Donald Trump is anticipated to speak; however, that game will be available on Netflix instead of traditional TV and cable networks.</p>
<p>As of August 31, 2026, Collins is in a competitive race against Maine Senate Democratic nominee Troy Jackson, with Jackson averaging 48% support compared to Collins's 46%, according to RealClearPolitics.</p>