Collins seat would be replaced at the next election by a DEM.
Are you sure? Maine was pretty competitive for Trump, who lost by less than the votes for Gary Johnson. In a two way race for Senate, it seems to be competitive, with the right candidate.
I believe Collins would be appointed by Maine’s governor. Paul LaPage would appoint a Conservative Republican. There are conservatives up in Maine, but Portland to Kittery receivedliberals from Mass, so they make it blue...