The shaking has been noticed in previous appearances dating back to at least 2019, according to the Daily Mail. Social media users expressed shock and speculated about essential tremor syndrome or Parkinson's disease, the outlet reported. Journalist Ken Klippenstein also raised concerns about her health.
Collins has not disclosed whether an illness has caused her shaking, but she later revealed she has a benign essential tremor. According to the Daily Mail, Collins described the tremor as having no impact on her ability to do her job or how she feels each day. She also stated she has never missed a single vote in her time representing Maine.
The tremor has affected her for over 40 years, she said. About five percent of adults over 40 and 20 percent of those over 65 have some form of this condition, according to Dr. Rees Cosgrove, director of epilepsy and functional neurosurgery at Mass General Brigham Hospital.
The Daily Mail reported that Dr. Cosgrove described the condition as not associated with other neurologic impairments, cognitive decline, memory decline, Alzheimer's disease, or Parkinson's disease. Collins is running for re-election in November against Democrat Graham Platner.
She assumed office in 1997 and is seeking a sixth term. Maine Gov. Janet Mills suspended her Congressional campaign after grim polling, citing lack of financial resources.
Collins delivered remarks at the 2025 Alzheimer's Impact Movement Advocacy Forum, where she stated that when she first joined the Senate, there wasn't much focus on brain health, and neurodegenerative diseases were thought of as just part of growing old. She highlighted her legislative efforts on Alzheimer's, including leading or co-leading five of the 15 health care bills that passed both chambers in the 118th Congress, with three of those dealing directly with brain health. The brain health bills Collins led include the National Alzheimer's Project Act, the Building Our Largest Dementia Infrastructure for Alzheimer's Act, and the Alzheimer's Accountability and Investment Act.
Collins' disclosure comes as her campaign faces a competitive race, with Platner challenging her long tenure. The tremor, while noticeable in public appearances, has not hindered her legislative work, as evidenced by her perfect voting record. Medical experts emphasize that essential tremor is a common movement disorder that does not affect cognition, distinguishing it from conditions like Parkinson's.
Collins' advocacy for brain health legislation underscores her commitment to addressing neurological diseases, even as she manages her own condition. Her remarks at the Alzheimer's forum highlighted a shift in congressional attention toward brain health, with her leadership on key bills aiming to improve research and infrastructure for Alzheimer's and dementia. The Daily Mail noted that Collins' shaking has been a topic of discussion among political observers, with some questioning whether it could affect her campaign.
However, Collins has maintained an active schedule, participating in debates and public events. Her campaign has emphasized her experience and legislative record, contrasting with Platner's platform. The race is considered competitive, with national attention on Maine's Senate seat.
Collins' health disclosure may influence voter perceptions, but her long history of public service and advocacy on health issues could mitigate concerns. Essential tremor, while sometimes socially embarrassing, is generally manageable with medication or lifestyle adjustments, according to medical sources. Collins' openness about her condition may help reduce stigma around movement disorders.
Her legislative focus on brain health aligns with her personal experience, potentially resonating with voters affected by neurological conditions. The Alzheimer's Impact Movement forum provided a platform for Collins to showcase her bipartisan work on health care, which could be a key campaign issue. As the election approaches, Collins' health and her ability to serve another term will likely remain a topic of discussion, but her disclosure aims to address speculation directly.