Graham Platner’s announced exit from the Maine Senate race Wednesday concluded one of the longest-running — and most-consequential — sagas of the 2026 battle for the Senate.

But many questions remain — both in Maine and in races around the country — that could shape how much of a chance Democrats have of flipping that chamber.

Here are some of the big ones.

1. How quickly – and thoroughly – can Maine Democrats turn the page on Platner?

Getting Platner to leave the race after the emergence of a rape allegation this week was the big first step for Maine Democrats; Monday is the deadline for being able to replace him on the ballot.