Maine Gov. Janet Mills, 77, has declined to commit to releasing her medical records as she runs for U.S. Senate in 2026, Axios first reported, amid calls from Democratic primary opponents for a new generation of leadership in Congress.
If elected, Mills would become the oldest first-term senator in U.S. history, taking office at age 79 in January 2027. Her decision not to release health records comes as Congress faces increased scrutiny over the age and fitness of its members, with more lawmakers over 70 now serving than at any point since at least 1950.
Three members of Congress have died in office this year, and others have faced health concerns that have drawn national attention. Mills, backed by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, 74, enters the race as the Democrat-supported challenger to Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine. But within her own party, younger progressives are pressing for change in the wake of former President Biden’s failed reelection bid.
Her Democratic rivals, Graham Platner, 41, a military veteran, and Jordan Wood, 36, a progressive activist, have already begun highlighting her age months ahead of the June primary. Platner’s campaign ad calls him “strong” and suggests that while Mills “was a good governor,” it’s “time for change.” Wood’s campaign recently conducted a focus group of about 40 voters in Portland and Bangor, where participants expressed pride in Mills’ service but concerned about her running for another six-year term.
Mills has attempted to ease those concerns by pledging to serve only one term if elected. Her allies also note that Collins will turn 74 next year and that independent Sen. Angus King, 81, was reelected last year to a third term.
Mills’ spokesperson, Scott Ogden, said she “is in excellent health, as Maine people know and see every day,” and that she “looks forward to campaigning vigorously.”
Wood told Axios he plans to release his medical records by the end of the year, saying, “Mainers deserve full confidence that their next senator is in good health and ready to do the job.” Platner declined to commit to releasing his medical records, citing his history of PTSD and a traumatic brain injury from military service.
A spokesperson for Collins also declined to say whether the senator would release her medical records.
As the average age of Congress continues to rise, questions about transparency and the health of elected officials remain a growing issue and one Mills will likely face throughout her campaign.
