Troy Jackson has been selected as the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate in Maine, stepping in after Graham Platner withdrew his candidacy last month due to mounting allegations, including a sexual assault accusation from his ex-girlfriend. Jackson, a former State Senate president and progressive candidate who previously ran for governor, stated he wished the circumstances leading to his nomination had not occurred but felt a responsibility to continue the progressive movement in the state.
"I wish nothing would have happened with Graham," Jackson said. "I wish, you know, things would have continued like all that. It would have been much better. But when it did, I just didn't want to see all these people that are looking for somebody to fight for them go away once again broken and hopeless."
Jackson, who had previously worked on Sen. Bernie Sanders' presidential campaigns, had endorsed Platner in his gubernatorial bid and campaigned alongside him. However, when the allegations surfaced, Jackson joined other Democrats in calling for Platner's departure from the Senate race. "The allegations against Graham Platner are serious, credible, and deserving of full accountability — they cannot and must not be ignored," Jackson stated on X at the time. "There is a powerful movement of working-class people in the state of Maine. For the sake of that movement, and the millions of Americans who have put their trust in it, Graham must now step down."
Jackson's own past has also drawn scrutiny. Reports have surfaced regarding a temper, including an incident where he allegedly threw a water bottle while serving in the State Senate. Additionally, a 1988 police record indicates allegations of assault and pushing his then-partner during a confrontation. Incumbent Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, commented on these reports, stating, "But I will say that, based on widespread reporting, it appears that he struggles to control his temper."
Platner's withdrawal leaves Jackson to face Collins in a race that could influence the balance of power in the Senate. A movement is underway to encourage Platner to run as a write-in candidate, with a website, writeingrahamforme.com, launched to support this effort. Proponents argue that a write-in campaign could demonstrate voter will against party establishment decisions and, due to Maine's ranked-choice voting system, could still serve to support Jackson if ranked second, potentially keeping the race competitive against Collins.
The deadline for write-in candidates to register in Maine is August 25.