Maine Democrats move to replace scandal-hit nominee with Troy Jackson
Why it matters: The switch resets a closely watched Senate race against Susan Collins that could affect control of the chamber.
Maine Democrats are set to make state Senate President Troy Jackson their U.S. Senate nominee at a 601-delegate convention Saturday, after primary winner Graham Platner suspended his campaign amid a sexual assault allegation he has denied. Jackson, a logger and longtime lawmaker from Allagash, had backed Platner before urging him to step aside, saying there is no place in politics for sexual violence. Several other Democrats entered the race after Platner withdrew, but four have since dropped out as Jackson consolidated delegate support. The November contest against Republican Sen. Susan Collins is expected to be competitive and could help shape which party controls the Senate.