Susan Rice, former national security adviser to President Barack Obama, hinted Friday that she could run against Sen. Susan Collins after the Maine Republican announced she will vote to confirm Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh.
She then quickly clarified that she was not announcing her candidacy.
“Who wants to run for Senate in Maine? there will be an army of supporters with you,” Obama’s former White House communications director Jen Psaki asked in a tweet.
“Me,” Rice responded.
— Susan Rice (@AmbassadorRice) October 5, 2018
"Many thanks for the encourgement. I’m not making any announcements. Like so many Americans, I am deeply disappointed in Senator Collins’ vote for Kavanaugh. Maine and America deserve better," she added.
Many thanks for the encourgement. I’m not making any announcements. Like so many Americans, I am deeply disappointed in Senator Collins’ vote for Kavanaugh. Maine and America deserve better. https://t.co/6oGFTFuO1Q
— Susan Rice (@AmbassadorRice) October 5, 2018
The former Obama adviser’s mother grew up in Maine.
In a speech on the Senate floor Friday afternoon, Collins said Kavanaugh should be given a “presumption of innocence” as he battled allegations of sexual assault. The judge has denied the allegations.
Collins’ support for Kavanaugh likely guarantees he will be confirmed as the newest Supreme Court justice.
Collins has faced intense pressure in recent weeks over her vote. Protesters gathered outside her office, hoping to sway her to vote against President Trump’s nominee.