In a bold move that mirrors her decision in the 2016 election, Senator Susan Collins of Maine has announced that she will not be voting for Donald Trump for president in the upcoming 2020 election. Instead, Collins plans to write in Nikki Haley as her preferred candidate.

Collins, known for her moderate Republican views, has been a vocal critic of Trump and did not endorse him in either the 2016 or 2020 elections. During a recent press conference, the senator expressed her ongoing support for Haley, the former South Carolina governor, stating that she believes Haley would do an excellent job as president.

"I publicly endorsed Nikki Haley, and I wanted her to win. She's still my favorite candidate, and I think she could do a great job. She's my choice, and that's how I'm going to express it," Collins explained to WMTW-TV.

This is not the first time Collins has written in a candidate instead of voting for Trump. In 2016, she famously voted for then-House Speaker Paul Ryan as her pick for president. As the only New England Republican in Congress and the lone Republican holding statewide office in Maine, Collins' decision stands out in a state where Trump has secured electoral votes in the past.

Collins' unwavering support for Haley comes despite the fact that Haley will not be on the ballot in November. However, Collins remains steadfast in her endorsement, stating that she believes Haley has the qualities needed to lead the country effectively.

Throughout her career, Collins has been a key vote in the Senate and is the longest-serving Republican woman in the Senate. Her decision not to vote for Trump aligns with her previous actions, including her vote to convict him in the impeachment trial for inciting an insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

It is worth noting that Collins, who was most recently reelected in 2020, defeated Democratic challenger Sara Gideon by a wider margin than expected. Although not on the ballot in 2024, Collins' influence in Maine politics cannot be overlooked.

Maine, a state where Trump has lost the statewide vote twice, awards one electoral vote based on its apportionment by district. Trump has a strong following in rural areas, particularly in Maine's 2nd Congressional District.

As election day approaches, it remains to be seen whether Collins' decision to write in Nikki Haley will have any significant impact on the overall outcome. However, her unwavering stance continues to showcase her independent and distinct voice within the Republican Party.