Democrats in Maine Choose Troy Jackson to Replace Scandal-Plagued Senate Candidate

Maine Democrats have formally nominated Troy Jackson, a former state Senate president and fifth-generation lumberjack, as their candidate for the U.S. Senate in a hastily organized convention on July 25, 2026. Jackson replaces Graham Platner, who withdrew from the race earlier this month after being accused of rape. Source: infobae

The Nomination

At the convention in Bangor, 566 of 571 delegates voted for Jackson, nearly unanimously. Source: CNN Jackson, 58, had previously run for governor but lost the primary. He now faces Republican incumbent Susan Collins, who has held the seat since 1997. Source: Diario Libre Jackson's platform includes Medicare for All, raising taxes on the wealthy, and workers' rights. He stated, "We are neither left nor right. We are the bottom, and we are rising." Source: infobae

The Scandal

Platner, a Marine veteran and oyster farmer, had won the Democratic primary with a populist message and support from progressives like Bernie Sanders. However, after an ex-girlfriend accused him of rape, and amid other controversies including a Nazi tattoo, he withdrew under party pressure. Source: Diario Libre Platner denied the allegation. Source: infobae

The Race Ahead

Maine is a critical state for Democrats hoping to regain Senate control. While polls showed Platner leading Collins, Jackson faces a tough race. Collins has a massive financial advantage, with Republican groups spending $44.9 million already. Source: infobae A recent University of New Hampshire poll gives Jackson 49% to Collins 46%. Source: infobae The election is November 3.