Maine Democrats pick Troy Jackson for Senate after Platner exit
Why it matters: Jackson now faces Sen. Susan Collins in a race that could help decide control of the chamber.
Maine Democrats chose former state Senate President Troy Jackson as their US Senate nominee at a party convention in Bangor on Saturday, moving quickly to reset the race after Graham Platner’s primary win collapsed amid rape allegations. Jackson beat Saundra Pelletier, a pharmaceutical executive, by a 566-5 delegate vote after other rivals dropped out and backed him. The seat is a key midterm target because Susan Collins is the only Republican Senate incumbent seeking reelection in a state Donald Trump lost in 2024. Jackson has raised more than $1 million, but the nomination comes as reports scrutinize his workplace conduct, mortgage dealings and past anti-abortion stance.