Troy Jackson courts Graham Platner supporters after sexual assault allegations

Graham Platner Senate Campaign Status·Latest event August 26, 2026

Aug 26

Troy Jackson courts Graham Platner supporters after sexual assault allegations

Jackson is attempting to consolidate the Democratic base by appealing to the progressive coalition that originally backed the former nominee. Jackson secured the nomination after Maine Democrats selected him to replace Platner. This followed sexual assault allegations against the previous candidate. Jackson now faces scrutiny for his past ties to Platner, including social media posts he later deleted. Republican opponents are linking Jackson to the former nominee to challenge his candidacy against Senator Susan Collins. Despite the controversy, Jackson remains the primary Democratic challenger in the race.

Dem who abandoned Platner after sex assault claim now scrambles for his votersMaine Democrats nominated former state lawmaker Troy Jackson to replace Graham PlatnerMaine Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson deleted social media posts praising Graham Platner

Aug 6

Troy Jackson scrubs social media as Republicans link nominee to Graham Platner

Maine Democrats nominated former state lawmaker Troy Jackson to challenge Senator Susan Collins. National Republicans immediately launched a campaign strategy linking Jackson to Platner following the previous candidate's exit. The National Review characterized the new nominee as just as radical as Platner. Jackson responded by deleting social media posts that previously praised Platner after sexual assault allegations surfaced. While Jackson emphasizes his labor background, some analysts suggest he cannot defeat Collins on working-class appeal alone.

You Can't Beat Susan Collins on Working-Class Vibes AloneMaine Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson scrubs social media postsGOP rolls out Maine campaign strategy tying Troy Jackson to Platner

Jul 26

Sanders stands by Platner endorsement as Maine Democrats pivot to Troy Jackson

Sanders stated he does not regret his previous endorsement of Graham Platner despite the candidate's recent withdrawal. Platner left the Maine Senate race following sexual assault allegations. Sanders faced questions about his support as Maine Democrats shift focus to former Maine Senate president Troy Jackson. Jackson secured the nomination to challenge incumbent Senator Susan Collins this November. He began his campaign with a 100 day sprint focused on the record of Collins. Jackson intends to remain laser focused on Collins to move past previous vetting scrutiny.

Sanders says he does not regret supporting Graham Platner in Maine Senate raceBernie Sanders Doesn't Regret Supporting Accused Rapist Graham PlatnerHow Republicans plan to conquer Troy Jackson

Jul 25

Troy Jackson enters Maine Senate race against Susan Collins after Democratic nomination

The former state Senate president secured the party's nomination to fill the vacancy left by Graham Platner. Jackson, a former logger, will now face incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins in the November general election. The Maine Democratic Party finalized the selection after Platner's campaign was derailed by sexual assault allegations. Party leaders moved quickly to consolidate support for Jackson following Platner's formal withdrawal. The transition allows the party to refocus its efforts on the competitive Senate seat as the election cycle enters its final months.

Maine Democrats Choose Troy Jackson to Replace Graham Platner in Key Senate RaceLogger-turned-lawmaker Troy Jackson claims Maine Senate nomination to replace PlatnerThe coronation of Troy Jackson

Jul 25

Maine Democrats nominate Troy Jackson to replace Graham Platner in Senate race

Party officials selected Troy Jackson to take over the campaign against incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins. During a special convention, party members voted for Jackson to fill the vacancy left by Graham Platner. The official nomination follows weeks of internal debate after Platner withdrew amid misconduct allegations. Jackson, a former Republican and logger, previously led the state Senate. Party leaders hope his selection will allow the campaign to move forward despite recent scrutiny regarding the candidate vetting process. Jackson formally clinched the nod on Saturday as Democrats look to stabilize their efforts in the competitive contest.

Democrats nominate Troy Jackson to replace Graham PlatnerDemocrats try to turn the corner in MaineJackson formally clinches Democratic nod to take on Collins in Maine Senate race