Collins Faces Pay-to-Play Scandal as FBI Probe Ends Under Trump

Key points

• ProPublica published an investigation on Sept. 22, 2026, alleging that the FBI sought to launch a bribery probe against Sen. Susan Collins and her staff for a pay-to-play scheme involving defense contractor Navatek and its former CEO, Martin Kao.
• The FBI investigation, which began in 2021 and continued through 2024, was halted in 2025 after the Trump administration purged the Justice Department and FBI teams handling public corruption cases.
• Collins and her campaign denied any wrongdoing, stating that the Biden administration cleared them in 2021 and calling the ProPublica report a 'political hit job' and 'categorically false.'
• ProPublica countered that the 2021 clearance was for an earlier investigation, while the 2024-2025 probe based on Kao's new allegations was not concluded under Biden but ended under Trump after the purges.
• The scandal has intensified the 2026 Maine Senate race, with Democratic candidate Troy Jackson calling the allegations 'corruption of the highest order' and Republican colleagues like John Cornyn and Katie Britt defending Collins.

Background

Collins has faced multiple challenges in her 2026 reelection campaign, including an unpopular war, Trump's trade disputes with Canada, and the sudden departure of her initial opponent, Graham Platner, amid sexual misconduct allegations. The race is considered a toss-up and crucial for Senate control. Previous coverage highlighted abortion-focused ads against Collins and endorsements from independent Joe Manchin, who praised her as an independent-minded Republican.

How outlets are covering it

ProPublica and ABC News emphasize the FBI's active investigation into Collins and the role of the Trump administration in ending the probe, with ProPublica specifically challenging Collins' claims about the 2021 clearance. USA Today and Baltimore Sun focus on the political fallout, with Republicans defending Collins and Democrats demanding answers. Collins and her aides consistently deny wrongdoing, citing the 2021 FBI clearance and calling the report a smear, while ProPublica argues that the 2024-2025 investigation was distinct and not concluded under Biden.

Why it matters

The scandal could significantly impact the 2026 Maine Senate race, which is crucial for determining control of the Senate. The outcome may also influence public perception of the Trump administration's handling of anti-corruption investigations and the role of media in holding politicians accountable.

What to watch

The 2026 Maine Senate election will be the next major event, with voters deciding whether to reelect Collins or elect Democratic candidate Troy Jackson. The outcome could also influence the broader narrative around the Trump administration's handling of anti-corruption cases and the role of media in political scandals.