Democratic senators remain supportive of Maine Senate nominee Troy Jackson despite a recent report alleging he fathered two children with his second cousin, Lana Pelletier. Jackson replaced former candidate Graham Platner on the ballot after Platner withdrew amid multiple scandals, including sexual misconduct claims.

The report, first published by Maine Wire editor Steven Robinson, has not swayed most Democratic lawmakers. They stress the critical need to secure swing state victories to regain a Senate majority, a challenging task in Maine where moderate Republican Susan Collins has held a Senate seat since 1997.

Maine's independent Senator Angus King declined to comment on the allegations, stating, "I have no idea what you’re talking about and I’m not going to comment on it anyway."

Jackson received overwhelming support this summer, winning 94% of the 601 delegate votes to replace Platner. Supporters highlight Jackson's commitment to working people and the importance of winning the seat to address issues like rising costs and Senate corruption.

Critics accuse Collins of deflecting from her voting record aligned with former President Trump and targeting Jackson's family with personal attacks.

Jackson was officially named the Maine Democratic Party's Senate nominee on July 25, 2026, in Bangor, Maine.

Sources