Democratic senators remain supportive of Troy Jackson, the Maine Senate nominee who replaced former candidate Graham Platner on the ballot, despite a recent report alleging Jackson fathered two children with his second cousin, Lana Pelletier.

Platner withdrew from the race ahead of the Democratic primary following multiple scandals, including sexual misconduct claims. Jackson was selected as the nominee after receiving 94% of the 601 delegate votes during the summer replacement process.

The report, first published by Maine Wire editor Steven Robinson, has not swayed most Democratic lawmakers. They stress the critical need to win swing state races like Maine to regain a Senate majority—a challenging task given that moderate Republican Susan Collins has represented the state 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."

Democrats argue that the focus should remain on electing their candidates to address issues such as rising costs and corruption in the Senate. A spokesperson criticized personal attacks on Jackson’s family as "shameful and desperate," highlighting Collins’ voting record aligning with former President Trump.

Jackson himself is described as "somebody who's obviously in this fight for working people," underscoring his campaign’s emphasis on economic concerns.

The Maine Senate race remains a pivotal contest ahead of the November election.

Sources