DSCC endorses Shenna Bellows in Maine

The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee has endorsed Shenna Bellows, the party’s only candidate challenging Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins.

{mosads}The DSCC’s endorsement comes a week after Maine’s candidate filing deadline passed. In a statement, DSCC Chairman Michael Bennet (Colo.) called Bellows “the type of leader we need in the U.S. Senate.”

“Shenna is an energetic leader who has fought for women’s rights, civil rights, individual freedoms, environmental protections, and an economy that works for everyone. She has the values and vision to always do what’s best for Mainers,” he said.

Collins isn’t seen as particularly vulnerable, and Bellows’ candidacy, while unique in its emphasis on a mix of progressive and libertarian issues, isn’t considered a strong threat.

Bellows did receive national attention, however, after outraising Collins in the fourth quarter and due to her positions in favor of marijuana legalization and dismantling of the National Security Agency’s surveillance program.