Maine Democrats Select New Senate Candidate

Maine Democrats have chosen Troy Jackson as their new candidate for the U.S. Senate after Graham Platner withdrew from the race. Platner’s departure, following a sexual assault allegation, led to a swift search for a replacement. Jackson now faces the challenge of rallying Platner’s supporters to defeat the incumbent Republican, Sen. Susan Collins.

Initially, Jackson and Platner were allies in the political arena. Jackson backed Platner’s Senate bid while Platner endorsed Jackson’s gubernatorial campaign. Despite standing by Platner during previous scandals, Jackson withdrew his support when the recent allegation emerged.

A sexual assault allegation proved the death knell for Platner’s campaign last month.

Jackson must now win over Platner’s progressive voter base. During a recent event in Waldo County, home to many Platner supporters, Jackson expressed his reluctance to run for Senate but emphasized the importance of continuing progressive politics.

National Republicans have criticized Jackson for trying to appeal to Platner’s voter base. Bernadette Breslin from the National Republican Senatorial Committee accused Jackson of exploiting Platner’s radical following.

Before Platner’s withdrawal, both he and Jackson shared similar political ideals, especially concerning labor issues. Platner had publicly ranked Jackson first on his ballot, highlighting their alignment on policies.

Jackson called for Platner to step down, citing the seriousness of the allegations against him. Jackson’s own record isn’t without controversy, including an incident where he allegedly threw a water bottle and an old police record from 1988 involving a confrontation.

Sen. Collins has refrained from commenting in detail on Jackson’s past incidents but noted concerns about his temper.

Meanwhile, there have been efforts to get Platner to register as a write-in candidate. A website promoting this idea was launched, but Platner has not submitted his name, and the deadline has passed.

Scott Niemi, in a Bangor Daily News op-ed, suggested writing in Platner to challenge the party’s decision, proposing the ranked-choice voting system as a way to keep the race competitive.

Alex Miller contributes to Fox News Digital, focusing on Senate coverage.