Republican Senator Susan Collins, 73, from Maine has ignited health worries following a reelection campaign video where she appears to tremble noticeably while unboxing sneakers.
The Viral Campaign Ad
In the footage, Collins’ hands shake as she opens the package, her head twitches, and her voice quavers. She holds up a sneaker and says, ‘This is perfect for 2026 because I’m… running.’
The video, first shared in February, recently gained widespread attention online. Journalist Ken Klippenstein commented on X that she seemed to be ‘vibrating like an electric toothbrush,’ prompting questions about her fitness for another term.
Public Reactions and Criticism
Social media users expressed mixed views. Some raised doubts about her ability to serve, with one stating, ‘Any other job in America will fire you if you can’t perform due to health reasons but somehow politicians just get to keep milking it and doing nothing.’ Others defended her, noting, ‘I don’t agree with her but just because she shakes doesn’t really mean anything.’
Collins, serving since 1997, seeks a sixth term in the November Senate race against Democrat Graham Platner. U.S. Senators hold six-year terms with no federal limits on reelection.
History of Tremors and Political Backdrop
Observers have noted Collins’ shaking in public appearances since at least 2019. Former President Donald Trump criticized her in January over a Venezuela war powers vote, urging voters to remove her and declaring she ‘should never be elected to office again.’
Republicans aim to defend 22 Senate seats this fall to maintain their 53-47 majority. Collins’ office has been reached for comment on the health concerns.
