6 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · May 6
The 73-year-old Maine Republican said she has had the condition throughout nearly 30 years in the Senate and that it does not affect her work.
Collins revealed the diagnosis after shaking drew negative online attention in her campaign launch video, as age and health remain under scrutiny in US politics.
The disclosure comes as Collins seeks a sixth term in a pivotal Senate race for Republicans; a neurologist said essential tremor is common and usually does not impair job performance.
Do health disclosures by politicians destigmatize conditions or just invite more unfair public scrutiny?
What unique policies and perspectives can a disabled combat veteran bring to the U.S. Senate?
As leaders' health becomes more public, how do we separate legitimate concern from personal bias?