Last Update: 09/17/2026 at 10:34 PM EST

Jackson Tests Collins’ Crossover Coalition

Coverage from Bangor Daily News, The Maine Monitor, and others

Jackson Tests Collins’ Crossover Coalition topic image

Troy Jackson is challenging five-term Republican Senator Susan Collins after replacing Graham Platner as the Democratic nominee in July.

Jackson has built his campaign around working-class credentials, labor support, healthcare access, and opposition to Donald Trump, while Collins is emphasizing bipartisan credibility, constituent service, federal investment, and her Appropriations Committee role. Polls generally show Jackson with a narrow lead, but the contest remains unsettled because Collins has greater name recognition, stronger financial support, and an established base among crossover voters.

Key Articles4 of 143 articles

If you read one thing

Collins Accepts Four Maine Senate Debates as Jackson Seeks Town Halls

It provides the broadest overview of the close race, Collins’s structural advantages, and Jackson’s compressed statewide campaign.

The Maine Wire / Jon Fetherston

Best explainer

Troy Jackson Faces Collins After Platner Campaign Collapse

It explains how Jackson’s late replacement of Graham Platner reshaped the Democratic coalition and campaign strategy.

WBUR / Anthony Brooks

The evidence

Polls Show Maine Senate Race Between Jackson and Collins Tightening

It supplies the clearest polling and race-rating evidence for the contest’s narrow and unsettled state.

Newsweek / Andrew Stanton

The evidence

Family Lobbying Ties Shape Collins-Jackson Senate Race

It documents the family-lobbying ethics issue that forms a major credibility vulnerability for Jackson while providing comparative context involving Collins.

The Maine Monitor / Matt Junker
Key Issues

A genuinely close general election

Recent YouGov, CNN/SSRS and Fox polling places Troy Jackson narrowly ahead of Susan Collins, generally by two to four points and within or near the margins of error. Race handicappers still classify the contest as a toss-up, leaving the outcome unresolved.

Stable

Drawn from 3 articles

Collins retains major structural advantages

Collins benefits from incumbency, statewide familiarity, a bipartisan image, an established organization and substantially greater financial capacity. Jackson’s working-class identity and northern Maine base provide a counterweight, but the resource and recognition gap remains central.

Stable

Drawn from 3 articles

Jackson must consolidate and expand the Democratic coalition

Jackson appears to have inherited strong Democratic and substantial former Platner support, but victory still depends on retaining progressive and younger voters while expanding among independents, working-class voters and crossover Republicans. His earlier positions on abortion and other social issues remain potential obstacles to that broader coalition.

Stable

Drawn from 4 articles

Jackson faces a concentrated credibility test

Republican attacks are concentrating on Jackson’s family-lobbying ties, residency and reimbursement questions, disputed past conduct, policy reversals and long legislative record. The issues have substantial campaign force, including millions in opposition advertising, although some allegations are contested or lack a criminal finding.

Stable

Drawn from 4 articles

Jackson faces a compressed statewide execution window

Jackson inherited the nomination late and has only a short period to build recognition, fundraising and organization beyond northern Maine. Debates, town halls, advertising and voter contact create opportunities to expand, but Collins’s established operation and the approaching voting period limit the time available to overcome the gap.

Stable

Drawn from 4 articles

Key Numbers

48% percent

Jackson supporters whose vote was primarily against Collins

when Platner was still in the race

Roughly six in 10 Jackson supporters said their vote was primarily against Collins, according to a recent Fox News poll, up from 48% when Platner was still in the race.

Bangor Daily News and 1 other article

$11.04 million USD

Susan Collins campaign cash on hand

end of June 2026

Collins enters the general-election phase with substantial advantages in time, money and statewide name recognition. FEC records show her principal campaign committee raised approximately $16.17 million between Jan. 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026, and had $11.04 million cash on hand at the end of June. Jackson’s campaign said it raised approximately $7 million after he became the Democratic nominee.

The Maine Wire

approximately $16.17 million USD

Susan Collins principal campaign committee receipts

Jan. 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026 · June 30, 2026

Collins enters the general-election phase with substantial advantages in time, money and statewide name recognition. FEC records show her principal campaign committee raised approximately $16.17 million between Jan. 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026, and had $11.04 million cash on hand at the end of June. Jackson’s campaign said it raised approximately $7 million after he became the Democratic nominee.

The Maine Wire

approximately $7 million USD

Troy Jackson campaign receipts after becoming Democratic nominee

after nomination

Collins enters the general-election phase with substantial advantages in time, money and statewide name recognition. FEC records show her principal campaign committee raised approximately $16.17 million between Jan. 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026, and had $11.04 million cash on hand at the end of June. Jackson’s campaign said it raised approximately $7 million after he became the Democratic nominee.

The Maine Wire

barely more than three months time

time available for Jackson to build a statewide operation before Election Day

July 25 nomination

Jackson became the nominee on July 25, after Maine Democrats selected him at a replacement convention following Graham Platner’s withdrawal. He therefore has barely more than three months to build a statewide operation, raise money and introduce himself to voters beyond his northern Maine base.

The Maine Wire

Looking Back
59 Day Timeline
Jul 20Aug 3Aug 10Aug 24Aug 31Sep 14
The Story So Far
No material change

The new article adds opposition material about Troy Jackson’s past votes on sexual-offense sentencing, but does not materially change the race’s underlying dynamics.

Previously

Troy Jackson is challenging five-term Republican Senator Susan Collins after replacing Graham Platner as the Democratic nominee in July. Jackson has built his campaign around working-class credentials, labor support, healthcare access, and opposition to Donald Trump, while Collins is emphasizing bipartisan credibility, constituent service, federal investment, and her Appropriations Committee role. Polls generally show Jackson with a narrow lead, but the contest remains unsettled because Collins has greater name recognition, stronger financial support, and an established base among crossover voters.

History
09/17/2026

The story is largely stable, but the current version adds specific labor backing from the AFL-CIO and notes that Graham Platner denied sexual-assault allegations when withdrawing.

09/15/2026

The update moves beyond a polling-focused contest by adding concrete campaign activity: four scheduled debates, expanding outside-group advertising and canvassing, and a sharper focus on crossover-heavy regions. It also identifies new outside actors and more specific ethics-related attacks.

All Articles143 articles
Important86 articles · CI Score 60 and above
Bangor Daily News / Benjamin Kail
During the 2026 Maine Senate campaign, Democratic nominee Troy Jackson is challenging Republican incumbent Susan Collins over Iran, Israel, Canada, and their economic effects on Maine voters.
8/5/2026 • Issues & Policy Debates • General
The Maine Monitor / Matt Junker
The Senate Leadership Fund and Democratic campaign groups are highlighting family lobbying ties involving Troy Jackson and Susan Collins during Maine’s 2026 Senate race.
9/8/2026 • Legal & Ethics Developments • General
The Portland Press Herald / Randy Billings
In Maine's 2026 Senate race, Democratic nominee Troy Jackson supports Medicare for All while Republican Senator Susan Collins's campaign opposes the proposal over costs and taxes.
8/13/2026 • Issues & Policy Debates • General
Newsweek / Andrew Stanton
Troy Jackson leads Susan Collins narrowly in several August and September polls of Maine voters, making Maine a key 2026 Senate battleground.
9/14/2026 • Polling & Race Ratings • General
WGME
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson are attacking each other's tax and governing records while debating affordability policies in Portland, Maine, ahead of the November 2026 Senate election.
9/10/2026 • Issues & Policy Debates • General
Daily Wire / Drew Berkemeyer
Maine Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson faced renewed campaign scrutiny in Maine after records disclosed a 1988 assault case and prior temper controversy.
8/13/2026 • Legal & Ethics Developments • General
WBUR / Anthony Brooks
Maine Democrats nominated Troy Jackson to challenge Susan Collins after Graham Platner's collapse amid scandal, with abortion and working class themes shaping the replacement campaign.
7/24/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
The Maine Wire / Jon Fetherston
Troy Jackson's 2026 Maine Senate campaign is confronting his earlier opposition to foreign logging labor as Jackson now supports immigrants and abolishing ICE.
8/22/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
National Review / Brittany Bernstein
Troy Jackson will challenge Susan Collins in Maine's 2026 Senate race while advocating ICE abolition and immigrant work eligibility despite his earlier opposition to Canadian logging labor.
8/10/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
SRN News
Democratic nominee Troy Jackson is challenging Republican Sen. Susan Collins in Maine's 2026 Senate race, drawing on logging roots in Aroostook County while facing broader statewide viability questions.
8/8/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
E&E News / Marc Heller
Troy Jackson is challenging Republican Sen. Susan Collins in Maine's 2026 Senate race, bringing a rural logging background and divided forestry record to the contest.
8/6/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
CentralMaine.com / Randy Billings
Maine Gov. Janet Mills declined to immediately endorse Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson while urging Collins's defeat Tuesday in Dresden, Maine.
7/30/2026 • Endorsements & Surrogates • General
Press Herald / Randy Billings
Maine Gov. Janet Mills withheld an immediate endorsement of Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson on Tuesday in Dresden while urging voters to defeat Republican incumbent Susan Collins.
7/30/2026 • Endorsements & Surrogates • General
USA Today
UNH Survey Center polling reported 51% of Graham Platner voters selected Troy Jackson as first choice for replacing him in Maine's 2026 Senate race.
7/29/2026 • Voters & Public Opinion • General
Forward / Grace Gilson
University of New Hampshire polling in Maine shows the 2026 Senate contest between Troy Jackson and Susan Collins in a statistical dead heat as Israel policy rhetoric drives voter division.
7/27/2026 • Voters & Public Opinion • General
Bradenton / Karissa Waddick
A July 21 University of New Hampshire survey shows Troy Jackson tied with Susan Collins, with 18-34 voters and women driving major support in Maine’s 2026 Senate race.
7/23/2026 • Voters & Public Opinion • General
Politico / Andrew Howard
Maine Democratic Party nomination rules restricted independent participation while Jackson refocused messaging on Platner voters to challenge Susan Collins, with reactions from Harwath and other Democrats across Sanford and Biddeford.
7/20/2026 • Voters & Public Opinion • General
Yahoo
Troy Jackson gained momentum as Maine Democrats sought a replacement for Graham Platner ahead of a Senate challenge to Susan Collins.
7/23/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Yahoo / Karissa Waddick
University of New Hampshire polling published July 21 finds Troy Jackson tied with Sen. Susan Collins in Maine, with major support from voters under 35.
7/23/2026 • Voters & Public Opinion • General
Fox News / Paul Steinhauser
UNH Survey Center polling published in a Fox News Power Rankings context found Troy Jackson leading Susan Collins by three points among likely Maine general-election voters over seven days.
7/22/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Daily Bulldog
Senate Leadership Fund, Troy Jackson, and Susan Collins are escalating a 2026 Maine Senate dispute over family lobbying ties and differing state and federal ethics rules.
9/9/2026 • Legal & Ethics Developments • General
Yahoo
Republican Sen. Susan Collins and Democratic nominee Troy Jackson are facing 2026 Maine Senate attacks over relatives' lobbying and consulting ties in Maine and Washington.
9/8/2026 • Legal & Ethics Developments • General
Yahoo
Recent polls in Maine show Democrat Troy Jackson narrowly leading Republican Senator Susan Collins in the 2026 U.S. Senate contest as the race attracts national attention.
9/14/2026 • Polling & Race Ratings • General
WGME
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson are attacking each other's economic records and housing and tax proposals during the 2026 Maine Senate campaign ahead of the November election.
9/10/2026 • Issues & Policy Debates • General
The Maine Wire / Jon Fetherston
Democratic nominee Troy Jackson will hold public town halls Tuesday in Lewiston and later in Gorham and Jay as he challenges Republican Sen. Susan Collins' debate format and record.
9/1/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
The Maine Wire / Jon Fetherston
Susan Collins accepted four proposed televised debates across Maine on Aug. 27, while Democratic challenger Troy Jackson negotiated formats before early voting begins Oct. 5.
8/28/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
The Washington Times / George Caldwell
The Bangor Daily News publicized a 1988 Fort Kent police report involving Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson, adding scrutiny to Jackson's 2026 challenge against Susan Collins.
8/13/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Bangor Daily News / Benjamin Kail
Republican groups attacked Democratic nominee Troy Jackson in Maine after a 1988 police report surfaced, while Jackson and supporters denied violence and emphasized policy differences with Senator Susan Collins.
8/13/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
PJ Media / Matt Margolis
The Bangor Daily News reported in 2026 that Troy Jackson's Maine Senate campaign faced scrutiny over a 1988 Fort Kent assault report before Jackson's contest with Susan Collins.
8/13/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
The Maine Wire / Jon Fetherston
Troy Jackson's 2005 votes against proposed sex offense penalties and sex offender residency restrictions are drawing scrutiny in his 2026 Senate campaign against Susan Collins in Maine.
9/17/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Bangor Daily News / Benjamin Kail
Hancock County activists scheduled a Sept. 7 Ellsworth rally featuring Graham Platner, prompting Maine Democrats to warn that renewed controversy could damage Troy Jackson's Senate campaign against Susan Collins.
8/13/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Bangor Daily News / Christopher Burns
Troy Jackson is emphasizing affordability and Susan Collins' record in his 2026 Maine Senate campaign after replacing Graham Platner.
8/11/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
The Portland Press Herald / Janice Cooper
Former Maine legislator Janice Cooper endorsed Troy Jackson as a Democratic challenger to Senator Susan Collins in Maine's 2026 Senate contest, citing Jackson's working-class background and economic message.
8/8/2026 • Endorsements & Surrogates • General
Lewiston Sun Journal / Leslie Bridgers
In Maine's 2026 Senate race, linguist Katharina Pabst analyzed Troy Jackson's northern Maine accent and its potential to shape his campaign image against Susan Collins.
8/5/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
100PercentFedUp
Democratic Maine Senate nominee Troy Jackson responded in Maine to reports about his relationship with Lana Pelletier while launching his first advertisement criticizing Republican Senator Susan Collins.
8/2/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
PJ Media / Matt Margolis
Troy Jackson faces relationship scrutiny and a Republican eligibility challenge in Maine as his Democratic Senate campaign seeks to defeat Susan Collins in 2026.
7/31/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Newsmax / Sandy Fitzgerald
Maine Gov. Janet Mills criticized Sen. Susan Collins in Portland, Maine, on Tuesday while withholding an endorsement of Democratic nominee Troy Jackson.
7/29/2026 • Endorsements & Surrogates • General
Washington Examiner / Rena Rowe
Maine Gov. Janet Mills declined to endorse Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson while urging voters to defeat Republican Sen. Susan Collins in Maine's November 2026 election.
7/29/2026 • Endorsements & Surrogates • General
Raw Story / Matthew Chapman
Susan Collins opposed President Donald Trump’s proposed Canadian tariffs, citing Maine-Canada economic ties, as Maine Senate race developments shifted toward Troy Jackson.
7/22/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Fox News / Paul Steinhauser
Republicans targeted Democratic Maine Senate nominee Troy Jackson in Maine over a resurfaced 1988 police record as a Fox News poll showed Jackson narrowly leading Susan Collins.
8/13/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
NBC News / Sahil Kapur
Maine Democratic nominee Troy Jackson is launching a statewide general-election television advertisement next week criticizing Republican Senator Susan Collins over economic pressures facing Maine residents.
8/1/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
The Maine Wire / Jon Fetherston
Troy Jackson and Susan Collins agreed in Maine to four televised Senate debates scheduled for October, with the first occurring after early voting begins.
9/5/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
The New Yorker
Troy Jackson replaced Graham Platner as Maine's Democratic Senate nominee in 2026 and is campaigning statewide against Republican incumbent Susan Collins.
9/10/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Journalarta
Troy Jackson is leading Susan Collins 48% to 45% in a CNN-SSRS poll as labor support, affordability concerns, and opposition to Donald Trump shape Maine's 2026 Senate race.
9/10/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Headtopics
Troy Jackson is campaigning across Maine in 2026 as the Democratic Senate nominee after replacing Graham Platner, emphasizing labor roots and outreach to working-class and disaffected Republican voters.
9/10/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Bangor Daily News / Benjamin Kail
Troy Jackson is leading Susan Collins in several polls in Maine during the 2026 Senate campaign, although many supporters say opposition to Collins drives their votes.
9/7/2026 • Voters & Public Opinion • General
Bangor Daily News / Benjamin Kail
Troy Jackson's Democratic campaign is leading several polls against Susan Collins in Maine, but voters and analysts continue to view the 2026 Senate contest as a referendum on Collins.
9/7/2026 • Voters & Public Opinion • General
The Portland Press Herald / Randy Billings
Troy Jackson held his first Senate campaign town hall in Lewiston, Maine, seeking to retain Graham Platner's grassroots supporters in the 2026 contest against Susan Collins.
9/3/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
CentralMaine.com / Randy Billings
Troy Jackson held a Lewiston town hall in Maine as he sought to mobilize Graham Platner's former supporters for his 2026 Senate challenge to Susan Collins.
9/3/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Bangor Daily News / Benjamin Kail
Troy Jackson held a campaign town hall Tuesday in Lewiston, Maine, challenging Senator Susan Collins with a working-class message focused on costs, Trump, and rural voters.
9/2/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Bangor Daily News / Benjamin Kail
Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson is holding town halls Tuesday in Lewiston, Thursday in Gorham, and Saturday in Jay while challenging Sen. Susan Collins to join him and answer Maine voters' questions.
9/1/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
The Portland Press Herald / Jack Brogan
Democratic strategists are urging Troy Jackson to target suburban and coastal Maine voters statewide in his 2026 challenge to Senator Susan Collins.
8/30/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
The Maine Wire / Jon Fetherston
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson are campaigning across Maine in the 2026 Senate race, where August polling showed a deadlock and six write-in candidates could trigger ranked-choice tabulation.
8/30/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Centralmaine.com / Jack Brogan
In Maine's 2026 Senate race, Democratic nominee Troy Jackson must broaden his rural labor message and win more Southern Maine suburban voters to challenge Susan Collins.
8/30/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Midcoast Villager / Alex Seitz-Wald
Troy Jackson appealed to Graham Platner supporters on August 22 in Belfast after replacing Platner as the Democratic nominee in Maine's 2026 Senate race.
8/24/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Washington Examiner / Rena Rowe
Troy Jackson released a second television advertisement in Maine after securing the Democratic Senate nomination, emphasizing affordability and attacking Susan Collins.
8/13/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Newsmax / Solange Reyner
Susan Collins begins the 2026 Maine Senate campaign with nearly $18.9 million raised after Democrats nominated Troy Jackson following Graham Platner’s withdrawal.
7/25/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
Yahoo
Troy Jackson held a Lewiston town hall Tuesday as Susan Collins met Bath Iron Works workers in competing Maine Senate campaign events.
9/2/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Bangor Daily News / Benjamin Kail
Troy Jackson leads Susan Collins narrowly in a CNN poll as the Democratic challenger campaigns across Maine against Collins' crossover appeal and ties to Donald Trump.
9/14/2026 • Voters & Public Opinion • General
Sun Journal / Susan Henderson
Troy Jackson and Susan Collins debated Medicare for All positions during the Maine Senate campaign in Maine, as reported by the Sun Journal on Aug. 14.
9/16/2026 • Issues & Policy Debates • General
The Portland Press Herald / Scott Paida
On Aug. 14 in Maine, Senate candidates Troy Jackson and Susan Collins contrasted support for Medicare for All with warnings about taxes, costs, and implementation.
9/16/2026 • Issues & Policy Debates • General
American Journal News / Jesse Valentine
In Maine's 2026 Senate race, Democratic state Senator Troy Jackson narrowly leads Republican Senator Susan Collins in a Fox News poll as Collins faces scrutiny over 2023 votes on workplace and healthcare legislation.
9/8/2026 • Issues & Policy Debates • General
Maine Public / Steve Mistler
Troy Jackson held his first 2026 Senate campaign town hall Tuesday in Lewiston, Maine, criticizing Susan Collins and presenting a working-class populist message shaped by Graham Platner's influence.
9/2/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Washington Examiner / Molly Parks
Susan Collins agreed to four debates with Troy Jackson in Maine, while Jackson sought town hall formats ahead of early voting beginning October 5.
8/28/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
The Portland Press Herald / Rachel Ohm
Susan Collins accepted four televised debate invitations for the 2026 Maine Senate race, while Troy Jackson's campaign sought town hall forums with voters across Maine.
8/27/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Washington Examiner / Claire Carter
Susan Collins criticized Democratic candidate Troy Jackson on Friday in Maine over resurfaced 1988 arrest reports as Jackson held a 48 percent to 47 percent polling lead.
8/14/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Independentsentinel / M Dowling
Democrat Troy Jackson held his first Senate campaign town hall in Lewiston this week, promoting Medicare for All and opposing ICE while leading Susan Collins narrowly in a reported poll.
9/5/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
The Portland Press Herald / Leslie Bridgers
Troy Jackson's northern Maine accent is shaping his working-class campaign image as Democrats' replacement nominee challenges Susan Collins in Maine in November.
8/5/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Newsmax / Sandy Fitzgerald
Maine Gov. Janet Mills criticized Sen. Susan Collins in Portland on Tuesday, calling Collins vulnerable ahead of the 2026 Senate election while withholding an endorsement of Troy Jackson.
7/29/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Politico / Jordain Carney
Troy Jackson entered the Maine Senate general election with targeted criticism of Susan Collins as Republicans launched multiple attack frames against Jackson.
7/27/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Fox News / Jasmine Baehr
The National Republican Senatorial Committee attacked Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson in August after a Bangor Daily News report surfaced a 1988 Fort Kent police account during Jackson's close Maine contest against Sen. Susan Collins.
8/13/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Centralmaine.com / Randy Billings
Troy Jackson and Susan Collins agreed to four televised Maine Senate debates scheduled for October 6, 8, 13, and 15, 2026, across Maine media outlets.
9/4/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Bangor Daily News / Benjamin Kail
Troy Jackson and Susan Collins will participate in four October Senate debates hosted by Maine media organizations across Maine, beginning October 6.
9/4/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Hindustan Times / Ken Thomas and Siobhan Hughes
Democrats replaced Graham Platner with Troy Jackson in July in Maine, where Jackson now narrowly leads Republican Senator Susan Collins in early polling.
8/23/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
CBS News
Maine Democrats nominated Troy Jackson after Graham Platner withdrew, positioning Jackson against Republican Senator Susan Collins in the November 2026 Senate election in Maine.
9/9/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
CBS News / Kaia Hubbard
Susan Collins will face Troy Jackson in Maine's 2026 Senate election after Graham Platner withdrew, with national analysts rating the contest a toss-up.
9/9/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Daily Kos
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson campaigns, along with outside groups, escalated advertising, debates, and canvassing in Maine during the 2026 Senate race.
9/9/2026 • Campaign Operations • General
US News Bulletin / Thad
In Maine's 2026 Senate race, Republican incumbent Susan Collins has made Troy Jackson's family history a campaign issue while Jackson's campaign calls the focus a distraction.
9/5/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
KOTA Radio
During the 2026 Maine Senate campaign, Susan Collins used reports about Troy Jackson's personal history to intensify Republican criticism of the Democratic challenger.
9/3/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Bangor Daily News / Benjamin Kail
During the 2026 Maine Senate race, Democrat Troy Jackson held a Lewiston town hall to promote his challenge to Republican Senator Susan Collins.
9/2/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Tawmill / Margery Christiansen
Maine Democrats nominated Troy Jackson at a convention in Maine after Janet Mills declined to lead the field and Graham Platner withdrew before the filing deadline.
9/1/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Stcadoc / Merrill Bechtelar CPA
Maine Democrats are expected to nominate Troy Jackson through a statewide county convention process after Graham Platner's campaign collapsed, positioning Jackson to challenge Senator Susan Collins.
9/1/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Gossip Wire
Troy Jackson, selected by Maine Democratic delegates after Graham Platner withdrew, has narrowly led Susan Collins in limited polling while campaigning in Belfast and across Maine.
8/23/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
MS NOW / Will McDuffie
With roughly 100 days remaining in Maine's 2026 Senate campaign, Troy Jackson is seeking statewide recognition while challenging Susan Collins's record on Trump, abortion, and bipartisanship.
8/31/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
HotAir / Beege Welborn
Troy Jackson faces scrutiny in Maine over alleged mortgage and residency inconsistencies as the Democratic nominee challenges Susan Collins in the 2026 Senate election.
9/15/2026 • Legal & Ethics Developments • General
Yahoo
On September 9, CNN found Democratic nominee Troy Jackson leading Republican Senator Susan Collins 48 percent to 45 percent among likely voters in Maine's competitive 2026 Senate race.
9/14/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Interesting55 articles · CI Score 45–59
WGME2
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson are exchanging attacks over taxes, housing costs, and governing records in Maine during the 2026 U.S. Senate campaign.
9/10/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Bangor Daily News / Michael Shepherd
Susan Collins agreed Thursday to four fall debates with Troy Jackson in Maine, while Jackson's campaign had not confirmed specific forums after Graham Platner's July withdrawal.
8/27/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Headtopics
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson confronted renewed scrutiny over Jackson's past conduct during Maine's 2026 U.S. Senate campaign.
8/15/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Yahoo
Troy Jackson led Susan Collins among Maine likely voters in a July University of New Hampshire poll while a report examined Jackson's family relationship with Lana M. Pelletier.
7/31/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Washington Examiner / Ramsey Touchberry
Susan Collins accepted four televised debate invitations for the 2026 Maine Senate race, while Troy Jackson had not agreed to participate in Maine before the midterm election.
9/4/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
The Portland Press Herald / Randy Billings
Troy Jackson and Susan Collins agreed to four Maine Senate debates in October 2026, hosted by Maine television and news organizations across the state.
9/4/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Maine Morning Star / Emma Davis
Troy Jackson and Susan Collins agreed Friday to four Maine Senate debates in October, with proposed events across Maine after early voting begins October 5.
9/4/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
CBS News / Kaia Hubbard
Maine Democrats selected former state Senate president Troy Jackson to challenge Republican incumbent Susan Collins in the 2026 Senate election after Graham Platner withdrew, with major race ratings calling the contest a toss-up.
9/9/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Itshrt
Susan Collins will face Troy Jackson in Maine's 2026 Senate election after Graham Platner's withdrawal, with national race analysts rating the contest a toss-up.
9/9/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
CBS News / Kaia Hubbard
Maine Democrats selected former state Senate president Troy Jackson to challenge Republican Senator Susan Collins in the 2026 general election after Graham Platner withdrew, leaving a race rated toss-up.
9/9/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
AOL / Kaia Hubbard
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson will compete in Maine's 2026 Senate election, where analysts rate the contest a toss-up after Democratic nominee changes.
9/9/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
TAG24 News USA / Evan Williams
During Labor Day weekend in Maine, Troy Jackson expanded public outreach while Susan Collins promoted Senate seniority and federal funding at the Windsor Fair.
9/8/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
WJXT News4JAX
On Labor Day in Southern Maine, Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson urged union members to vote and outlined a working-class agenda against Republican Senator Susan Collins.
9/7/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Cruisin' 929 / Andy Sullivan
In Maine, Troy Jackson replaced withdrawn candidate Graham Platner in July and now leads Republican Senator Susan Collins by three to four points in recent polls.
9/7/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
WKMG News 6 & ClickOrlando
Troy Jackson campaigned with union members in Portland on Labor Day, promoting higher wages and family medical leave during his shortened 2026 challenge to Senator Susan Collins in Maine.
9/7/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Bangor Daily News
Troy Jackson is building a Democratic campaign against Susan Collins in Maine after Graham Platner withdrew from the 2026 Senate race in late July.
9/7/2026 • Voters & Public Opinion • General
The Washington Times / George Caldwell
Troy Jackson criticized Susan Collins on Saturday in Wells, Maine, for referencing his family relationship during the 2026 Senate campaign.
9/5/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Washington Examiner / Carter Schroppe
Troy Jackson criticized Susan Collins in Wells after Collins referenced Jackson's family relationship, intensifying the Maine Senate campaign before four planned October debates.
9/5/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
WGME
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson campaigned in Brunswick and Gorham, Maine, two months before Election Day, highlighting affordability, tariffs, immigration, and personal attacks.
9/4/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
WGME
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson campaigned in Brunswick and Gorham, Maine, two months before Election Day, emphasizing affordability, federal policy, trade, and personal-life controversy.
9/4/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
WGME
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson campaigned in Brunswick and Gorham, Maine, two months before Election Day, debating affordability, tariffs, federal policy, and personal scrutiny.
9/4/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
WGME
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson campaigned in Brunswick and Gorham, Maine, where affordability, healthcare, immigration enforcement, Canada tariffs, and personal attacks shaped the Senate contest two months before Election Day.
9/4/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
WGME
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson campaigned in Brunswick and Gorham, Maine, two months before Election Day, focusing on affordability, tariffs, healthcare, immigration, and personal attacks.
9/4/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
New York Post / Ryan King
During the 2026 Maine Senate campaign, Susan Collins drew attention in Maine by raising Troy Jackson's family relationship while discussing potential vulnerabilities.
9/3/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
The Portland Press Herald / Steve Collins
Troy Jackson held his first 2026 Senate campaign town hall Tuesday in Lewiston, where the older audience highlighted challenges reaching younger Maine voters in the race against Susan Collins.
9/3/2026 • Voters & Public Opinion • General
WGME2
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson are competing in Maine's 2026 Senate race as Democrats criticize Collins's alignment with Donald Trump during an Augusta campaign event.
9/3/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Mediaite / Alex Griffing
Susan Collins criticized Democratic opponent Troy Jackson's energy record, political positions, and personal circumstances during a Politico interview in Maine.
9/2/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
The Maine Wire / Jon Fetherston
Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson launched a town hall campaign Tuesday in Lewiston, Maine, where organizers excluded Maine Wire reporters despite admitting other media outlets.
9/2/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
RedState / Sister Toldjah
Troy Jackson and Susan Collins are competing in a closely matched 2026 Maine Senate race, with campaign messaging increasingly focused on candidate records and character controversies.
9/2/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
WMTW / Ronnie Parrillo
Troy Jackson held a Lewiston, Maine, town hall Tuesday, discussing artificial intelligence and immigration while challenging Senator Susan Collins to debates.
9/1/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Netdomainproperties / Nicola Considine CPA
Troy Jackson faces renewed scrutiny from Maine Democrats over reported outbursts and conduct toward female colleagues before the party's 2026 Senate nominating convention in Maine.
9/1/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Dience
Troy Jackson is emerging as a progressive Democratic contender in Maine for the 2026 Senate race against Republican Susan Collins, after gaining attention among thousands of Maine Democrats.
9/1/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Hobbygifted / Duane Harber
Troy Jackson is facing renewed scrutiny over alleged angry outbursts as Maine Democrats prepare for the party's 2026 Senate nominating convention in Maine.
8/30/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Vegetablestorage / Edwin Metz
Troy Jackson is poised to become the Democratic challenger to Susan Collins in Maine's 2026 Senate race after Graham Platner withdrew, prompting Republican scrutiny and Democratic concern.
8/30/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
WABI
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson are campaigning across Maine less than 70 days before the general election while debating Canadian tariffs, qualifications, and attack advertising.
8/28/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Oacsrocks
Ahead of Maine Democrats' nominating convention, Troy Jackson faces scrutiny over reported angry conduct and leadership concerns in his Senate campaign against Susan Collins.
8/25/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
The New York Times
During the 2026 Maine Senate race, Democrat Troy Jackson replaced Graham Platner and challenged Republican incumbent Susan Collins amid polling gains and Democratic turnout concerns.
8/24/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Fox News
Susan Collins discussed reports about Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson's personal history during a Maine campaign appearance, while Jackson's campaign accused Collins of using personal attacks to avoid substantive issues.
9/3/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Reuters / Andy Sullivan
In the 2026 Maine Senate race, Democrat Troy Jackson replaced Graham Platner and now leads Republican Senator Susan Collins by three to four points in recent polls.
9/7/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
ABC News / Joey Cappelletti, Thomas Beaumont, Mary Clare Jalonick
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson are competing in Maine as Republican-aligned groups outspend Democratic-aligned groups during the final weeks before the 2026 election.
9/8/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Los Angeles Times / Mark Z. Barabak
Susan Collins remains favored in Maine's 2026 Senate contest after Troy Jackson replaced withdrawn Democratic candidate Graham Platner following controversy surrounding Platner's conduct.
8/30/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Fortune
Democrats replaced Graham Platner with Troy Jackson in Maine's Senate race in late July, leaving Jackson to challenge Susan Collins with substantially less spending before Election Day.
9/8/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Fortune
Susan Collins and Democratic nominee Troy Jackson are competing for Maine's Senate seat as major spending and shifting national conditions make the race less certain before Election Day.
9/8/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
ClickOrlando / Joey Cappelletti, Thomas Beaumont and Mary Clare Jalonick
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson are competing in Maine's 2026 Senate race, where Collins and aligned super PACs have spent nearly $80 million after Democrats changed nominees.
9/8/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
KSAT / Joey Cappelletti, Thomas Beaumont, Mary Clare Jalonick
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson are competing in Maine's 2026 Senate race, where late Democratic nominee replacement and major advertising spending have increased uncertainty before Election Day.
9/8/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
WSLS 10
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson are competing in Maine less than two months before Election Day, with Collins-aligned groups holding a large advertising advantage.
9/8/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Click2Houston / Joey Cappelletti, Thomas Beaumont and Mary Clare Jalonick
In the 2026 Maine Senate contest, Susan Collins holds a major spending advantage over replacement Democratic nominee Troy Jackson less than two months before Election Day.
9/8/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
PBS News / Joey Cappelletti, Thomas Beaumont, Mary Clare Jalonick
Susan Collins and aligned super PACs have outspent newly nominated Democrat Troy Jackson in Maine as the 2026 Senate race grows more competitive before Election Day.
9/8/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
News4Jax / Joey Cappelletti, Thomas Beaumont and Mary Clare Jalonick
Democratic delegates selected Troy Jackson to challenge Republican Sen. Susan Collins in Maine after Graham Platner left the race, intensifying a closely watched 2026 contest.
9/8/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
The New York Times
The Maine Democratic Party selected Troy Jackson to replace withdrawn nominee Graham Platner, intensifying Susan Collins's 2026 reelection contest in Maine amid unfavorable national conditions for Republicans.
9/7/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
U.S. News / Andy Sullivan
Troy Jackson replaced Graham Platner as the Democratic Senate nominee in Maine in July and recently led Republican incumbent Susan Collins by three to four points.
9/7/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
WSLS 10
Troy Jackson campaigned among union members in Portland, Maine, on Labor Day while challenging Susan Collins in the November 3 Senate election.
9/7/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
NewsFire.GR / Stefanos Banos
Maine Democrats selected former state Senator Troy Jackson for the 2026 Senate race after Graham Platner withdrew, leaving Jackson to challenge Republican Senator Susan Collins in a toss-up contest.
9/6/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
WGME
During the 2026 Maine Senate race, Susan Collins defended her record while Democrats in Augusta criticized her Trump alignment and promoted Troy Jackson.
9/3/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
The Maine Wire / Jon Fetherston
National party leaders and outside groups intensified involvement in Maine during August as Susan Collins and Troy Jackson contested a closely divided Senate race.
8/23/2026 • Parties & Political Organizations • General
Additional2 articles · CI Score below 45
Daily Kos
Troy Jackson won Maine's Democratic Senate nomination in July and will challenge Republican incumbent Susan Collins statewide in the 2026 general election.
9/3/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Daily Kos / Bill in Portland Maine
Troy Jackson campaigned in Portland, Maine, on Labor Day as a Democratic challenger to Senator Susan Collins, emphasizing affordability, healthcare, and labor protections.
9/9/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General