Logger-turned-lawmaker Troy Jackson claims Maine Senate nomination to replace Platner

The fifth-generation logger initially ran as a Republican in 2000, lost, then won as an independent two years later, switching to the Democratic Party in 2004.

Jackson handily won on Saturday with 566 votes during the Democratic nomination convention in Bangor, Maine.

What we know

Hundreds of Democratic delegates chose Jackson — a logger and former Maine Senate president — to take on Republican Sen. He eventually became Maine Senate president before leaving the state Legislature in 2024 and coming in third in this year’s Democratic gubernatorial primary while backed by Mr.

Jackson, 58, represented far northern Maine for 20 years in the Maine House and Senate. “While Susan Collins rubberstamps Donald Trump’s agenda, Jackson will prioritize making life more affordable and delivering for families across Maine,” Democratic National Committee Chairman Ken Martin said in a statement.

“For nearly 30 years, Collins has told Maine that she is concerned,” he said.

The details

Jackson’s nomination starts a 101-day sprint to Election Day in a nationally watched race. Collins as uniquely vulnerable since she’s the only Senate Republican up for reelection this cycle in a state that backed former Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign in 2024. “Mainers value steady leadership that yields real results for the Pine Tree State, making Susan Collins the clear choice once again this November.” Copyright © 2026 The Washington Times, LLC. Susan Collins (R-Maine) in November, giving the party just 100 days to quickly turn the tides in the must-win race.

What to watch

“Senator Susan Collins is a proven leader with unimpeachable character who will continue to deliver for Mainers when they reelect her this November.” Recent reports on Mr.