PORTLAND, MAINE (VINnews) – Republican Sen. Susan Collins has taken a narrow lead over Democratic challenger Graham Platner in the closely watched Maine Senate race, according to a new Fox News poll.

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The survey, conducted June 23-27, showed Collins leading Platner 50% to 47% among registered voters. The results mark Collins’ strongest showing in recent polling after surveys earlier this year had shown Platner with a slight edge or the race tied.

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Collins, seeking a sixth term, is a longtime moderate Republican in a state that has consistently opposed former President Donald Trump. Platner, a Marine veteran and oyster farmer, secured the Democratic nomination with 72% of the vote in the primary but faces questions about his ability to connect with working-class voters.

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The contest is rated a toss-up and could prove decisive in the battle for control of the Senate. While Democrats are highly motivated, Collins holds an advantage on questions of character and steadiness. Maine’s ranked-choice voting system is expected to play a key role, with independents likely to determine the outcome.

With more than four months until the Nov. 3 election, heavy advertising and voter turnout efforts will shape the final result in this key battleground.

A Collins victory would significantly diminish Democratic hopes of flipping the Senate.