Troy Jackson nominated as Maine Democrat for U.S. Senate, faces Susan Collins

Maine Democrats convened in Bangor to replace former primary winner Graham Platner, who withdrew after a sexual‑assault allegation. At a convention with roughly 600 delegates, former state Senate president and logger Troy Jackson secured the nomination overwhelmingly, winning 566 of 571 votes; the only other candidate, biopharma executive Saundra Pelletier, received five votes.

Jackson, a fifth‑generation logger who switched from the Republican Party to the Democrats in 2004, is running on a progressive platform that includes Medicare for All, higher taxes on the ultra‑wealthy, dismantling ICE, ending U.S. military aid to Israel and federalizing abortion rights. He has raised about $1 million since entering the race.

The race is seen as pivotal for control of the U.S. Senate. Democrats need four additional seats to claim the majority, and Maine is regarded as their best pickup opportunity. Republican incumbent Susan Collins, a five‑term senator, holds a significant war chest and seniority, making the contest a high‑stakes contest in the 2024 midterms.