Maine Senate hopeful Troy Jackson has endorsed Todd Chretien, a former co-chair of the Democratic Socialists of America who has characterized himself as a "revolutionary socialist" and suggested Jesus was a communist. Chretien, a candidate for Portland City Council, has a history of writing favorably about socialist ideology, including Karl Marx.
In a 2018 piece for SocialistWorker.org, Chretien wrote, "Marx was hardly the first critic of society, though, and he was not even the first communist. Jesus of Nazareth was among the many to condemn ‘rich men’ long before Marx." He further described Marx as unique for proposing "a historically specific path for winning equality that combined defiance of oppression and exploitation with a social force potentially capable of replacing the elite."
Chretien also edited a book titled "Eyewitnesses of the Russian Revolution," featuring insights from Leon Trotsky and Vladimir Lenin. He has described Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) as holding "relatively tame social-democratic beliefs" and anticipates socialists will pursue a "more revolutionary reckoning with the system."
Jackson stated his pride in supporting Chretien, saying, "Todd will stand up for working-class people in city hall. That’s why I’m proud to support him and call him a friend." The two have campaigned together frequently during the 2026 midterm election cycle, with Chretien previously backing Jackson in his gubernatorial and Senate bids.
Jackson's endorsement of Chretien comes as he also reminisced about Graham Platner, the former Democratic nominee for Maine's Senate seat who dropped out of the race in July. Platner was forced to withdraw after facing rape accusations, which followed numerous allegations of abuse and misconduct from former partners. Platner has denied the accusations of physical or sexual abuse but acknowledged past relationship issues. He also faced scrutiny for a Nazi tattoo he later covered, a Reddit history containing controversial statements, and accusations of sexting while married.
During a campaign event in Belfast, Maine, Jackson expressed his regret over Platner's departure. "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."
Jackson stepped in to replace Platner as the Democratic candidate for the Maine Senate seat. He stated that he did not want to see supporters of Platner left "broken and hopeless" once his predecessor withdrew from the race.
