Former Maine Senate President Troy Jackson is rapidly consolidating support in the race to become the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate, following the withdrawal of former candidate Graham Platner.
During the weekend’s delegate selection, delegates aligned with Jackson captured more than 90 percent of the 319 available slots. The sweep included all 149 delegates in Cumberland County, the state’s most populous region and home to Portland.
Jackson, who addressed supporters in a video, emphasized the need for a government that reflects the will of ordinary citizens. He expressed gratitude to those who backed him.
The strong showing positions Jackson to secure the nomination and face long‑time Republican Senator Susan Collins in next month’s midterm election, a contest that could influence the balance of power in the Senate.
A fifth‑generation logger and former Republican who switched parties two decades ago, Jackson previously placed third in the Democratic gubernatorial primary. His campaign focuses on progressive policies aimed at working‑class voters.
Key elements of his platform include raising taxes on billionaires, expanding a universal healthcare system, abolishing a federal immigration agency, and opposing military aid to Israel.
In addition to the dominant performance by Jackson’s allies, other candidates such as former CDC director Nirav Shah, Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, and former congressional staffer Jordan Wood secured only a limited number of delegates.
The remaining eight counties will select 181 delegates on Sunday. These, along with 101 automatic delegates from the state committee, will vote for the Senate nominee at the convention in Bangor.
Platner, a combat veteran and oyster farmer who had strong support from the state’s Democratic leadership, withdrew after allegations of a sexual assault surfaced. He denied the claims but stepped aside amid calls for his resignation.
Jackson had previously campaigned alongside Platner but urged his removal following the allegations. He has since positioned himself as the candidate best able to continue the progressive agenda.
During a recent debate, Jackson highlighted Platner’s focus on confronting the health care and prescription drug industries, underscoring the need for affordable, quality care for all residents.
The upcoming convention will decide whether Jackson can carry the Democratic ticket into a highly contested Senate race that could affect national politics.
