'Take the hint': Senate GOP leaders openly hope Trump shuts up about vulnerable Republican

Senate GOP leaders are hoping that Trump will stop badmouthing a Republican they need to keep a majority, according to a new report.

Punchbowl News reported on Friday that Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) had kind words for Vice President JD Vance, and GOP leaders hope it's a sign the White House won't attack her.

"Collins is the only Republican who can win in a state as unique as Maine," Punchbowl News noted. "A Democratic victory here in November would bring Republicans dangerously close to losing the majority."

Trump has raged against Collins for breaking with her party. Still, GOP leaders continue to see her as "largely a team player," and are hoping "the president would take the hint and resist his urge to slam Collins," Punchbowl News added.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune has also "given wide latitude" to Collins to break from the party.

Collins, 73, is seeking a sixth term in November and faces a competitive race that could determine which party controls the Senate. Maine is the only state with a Republican incumbent that Vice President Kamala Harris carried in 2024, and Sabato's Crystal Ball moved the race from "Leans Republican" to "Toss-up" in October.

Collins is now expected to face Graham Platner, a combat veteran turned oyster farmer endorsed by Sens. Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, after Gov. Janet Mills suspended her campaign on April 30, citing fundraising shortfalls. Recent polls had shown Platner leading Mills by double digits before her exit.