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2026 Maine Senate
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Last Update: 11/01/2026 at 11:34 PM EST
Maine’s 2026 Senate race
Coverage from Bangor Daily News, Politico, and others
Maine’s 2026 U.S.
Senate race pits Republican incumbent Susan Collins against Democratic nominee Troy Jackson. The campaigns have engaged voters through debates, town halls, canvassing, fundraising, and extensive advertising, with outside groups also spending on the contest. Their messaging has highlighted healthcare and Medicaid, abortion rights, energy costs, tariffs, and other policy differences, alongside competing claims about each candidate’s record and character. Together, these campaign tactics and issues show how a statewide Senate contest connects local voter concerns with national political interests.
Key Articles4 of 184 articles
If you read one thing
It offers a broad introduction to the contest’s campaign strategies, voter outreach, advertising, and policy messaging.
Best explainer
It explains how both campaigns frame affordability and adds context on disputed claims about taxes and electricity.
The evidence
It documents the scale and outside-group role in negative advertising with concrete spending figures.
The evidence
It shows how an attack on Jackson’s background made working-class identity and heating affordability campaign issues.
Key Issues
Record ad spending, with outside groups favoring Collins
The race has more than $260 million spent or reserved for advertising, and Maine’s broadcast spending per resident leads competitive Senate contests. Jackson’s campaign has outspent Collins directly, but outside groups have spent more backing Collins, producing an overall Republican advertising advantage.
Stable
Negative ads intensify and leave voters fatigued
Negative spots take a dominant share of broadcast spending, with more than $54 million spent or committed to negative ads by Oct. 20 and almost all of the costliest attacks funded by outside groups. Voters interviewed across Maine describe repetitive ads as exhausting, and some reportedly considered not voting because of them.
Strengthening
Affordability and policy records define the contrast
Both campaigns use household costs and policy records to frame the choice, particularly taxes, electricity, healthcare, and fuel. Fact-checking reports identify selective or misleading portrayals of candidates’ records, so those claims remain contested campaign arguments rather than settled accounts.
Stable
Personal attacks put character and class identity in play
Ads and campaign responses have targeted Jackson’s personal life, temperament, and qualifications, while the cord-of-wood spot drew criticism over its portrayal of working-class Mainers. Collins’s distancing from some personal attacks has also become part of the dispute over campaign tone.
Stable
Key Numbers
$11 million USD
cash on hand
“Collins had $11 million cash on hand at the end of the second quarter, covering April 1 through June 30.”
$16.5 million USD
Jackson campaign spending
“Jackson spent $16.5 million and had $4 million on hand at the end of September, along with roughly $1 million in debt to a vendor. Collins raised $5.2 million and spent $10.9 million over the same quarter, ending it with $5.4 million and no debt.”
$20.4 million USD
Jackson's fundraising in his first three months in the race
“Democrat Troy Jackson raised $20.4 million in his first three months in the U.S. Senate race, four times what Republican Sen. Susan Collins brought in, but he spent it in a furious ramp-up and entered October with less cash than the incumbent.”
approximately 15,000 volunteers
volunteers claimed by Graham Platner’s campaign
“More than 1,000 Mainers joined Jackson at the Maine Democratic Party’s volunteer kickoff in August, though that was substantially fewer than the approximately 15,000 volunteers Platner’s campaign said it had before his withdrawal.”
$28.7 million USD
spending by Republican-backed groups on the ads
“Thirteen of the 25 most expensive ads were from Democratic-aligned groups attacking Collins, and 12 were from Republican-aligned groups attacking Jackson. Republican-backed groups spent $28.7 million on the ads, compared with $25.8 million from Democratic-backed groups.”
Looking Back
103 Day Timeline
Jul 21
Aug 8
Aug 24
Sep 11
Sep 27
Oct 15
Oct 31
The Story So Far
No material change
The new reports reiterate the race’s exceptional advertising intensity, voter fatigue and backlash over campaign messaging without establishing a material new development.
Previously
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson are competing in a close Maine Senate race shaped by a burst of late-campaign advertising. Collins’s campaign and Republican-aligned groups questioned Jackson’s qualifications, logging background and personal life; Jackson and his allies recast those attacks around working-class experience and household heating costs. Outside-group ads supporting Jackson also drew scrutiny over a Maine resident’s account of how her footage was used. Polling cited in the reports remains tight, with estimates varying.
History
11/01/2026
The story now emphasizes the exceptional scale of the ad campaign and reports that repetitive negative ads left some voters exhausted or discouraged. This shifts attention from individual ad disputes toward the campaign’s broader effect on voters.
10/31/2026
A pro-Jackson PAC removed an affordability ad after a Maine resident alleged she had been misled about how her footage would be used. Jackson’s response also reframed attacks on his logging background around household heating costs.
All Articles184 articles
Important
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
Troy Jackson is positioning Medicare for All and prescription drug cost cuts at the center of the 2026 Maine Senate challenge to Susan Collins as primary rivals withdraw.
7/21/2026 • Issues & Policy Debates • General
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
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
On October 19, 2026, Republican Susan Collins, Democrat Troy Jackson, and allied groups escalated negative television advertising in Maine's U.S. Senate race, while Jackson held a narrow lead.
10/20/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
The Senate Leadership Fund is attacking Democratic nominee Troy Jackson in Maine's 2026 Senate race over Jackson's 2009 vote for a repealed state tax overhaul.
9/16/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
WinSenate aired a Maine Senate campaign advertisement in 2026 claiming Troy Jackson expanded Medicaid and Susan Collins cast the deciding vote for Medicaid cuts, but PolitiFact found both claims misleading.
9/14/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Susan Collins launched television attacks against Troy Jackson in Maine on September 1, 2025, arguing Jackson's legislative record worsened property taxes and electricity costs.
9/9/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Susan Collins launched television attack ads against Troy Jackson in Maine on September 1, 2026, framing property taxes and electricity costs as central Senate race issues.
9/9/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Pine Tree Results PAC and Democratic-aligned groups launched disputed attack ads in Maine on Wednesday over Troy Jackson's Social Security position and Susan Collins' healthcare votes.
8/19/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Government That Works PAC spent $1.624 million on advertising supporting Troy Jackson and opposing Susan Collins in Maine on July 31 and August 1.
8/10/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Government That Works PAC began a $1.3 million television advertising campaign supporting Troy Jackson in Maine during the 2026 Senate contest.
8/5/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Government That Works PAC began spending $1.3 million on television advertisements supporting Troy Jackson in Maine's 2026 Senate contest against Susan Collins.
8/4/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Troy Jackson launched a seven-figure introductory television advertisement in Maine after winning the Democratic nomination, targeting incumbent Senator Susan Collins ahead of the November 3, 2026 election.
8/3/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Senate Leadership Fund backed a $42 million outside-spending push against Maine nominee Troy Jackson beginning July 25, targeting him after his selection to replace Graham Platner.
7/27/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Susan Collins launched her All Of Maine Bus Tour in August as MaineHealth announced a Damariscotta birthing-center closure amid debate over rural healthcare access.
8/19/2026 • Issues & Policy Debates • General
Troy Jackson's federal personal financial disclosure and first regular campaign finance report are due October 5 and October 15, respectively, after Maine's early voting begins.
9/8/2026 • Legal & Ethics Developments • General
In the final days before Maine's November 3, 2026, Senate election, Susan Collins's Cord of Wood ad drew criticism in Maine for its portrayal of challenger Troy Jackson and working-class voters.
10/30/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
In late October 2026, Susan Collins's Maine Senate campaign faced criticism in Maine for an ad challenging Troy Jackson's qualifications and logger background.
10/28/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
On October 27, 2026, the Senate Leadership Fund aired a radio ad attacking Democratic nominee Troy Jackson's relationship in Maine's closely contested Senate race.
10/27/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
During the 2026 Maine Senate campaign, the Senate Leadership Fund and Republican allies aired ads attacking Troy Jackson over his relationship and conduct, intensifying a close contest in Maine.
10/27/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
On October 27, 2026, Senate Leadership Fund and Republican allies escalated attacks on Troy Jackson's family relationship in radio and television ads across Maine's Senate race.
10/27/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
In October 2026, campaigns and outside groups reserved nearly $218 million in broadcast advertising for the Collins-Jackson Senate contest across Maine, the highest per-capita spending among competitive races.
10/31/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
In October 2026, Maine voters faced nearly $218 million in planned broadcast advertising for the Collins-Jackson Senate race, the highest per-person total among competitive Senate contests.
10/31/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
In late October 2026, AdImpact data showed nearly $218 million in broadcast advertising earmarked for the Collins-Jackson U.S. Senate race in Maine, the highest per-capita total among competitive Senate contests.
10/31/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
In the 2026 Maine Senate race, the Senate Leadership Fund and Republican campaigns aired personal attack ads against Troy Jackson, while Susan Collins publicly distanced herself from one radio ad.
10/27/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Outside groups spent or committed more than $54 million on negative ads against Susan Collins or Troy Jackson through October 20 in Maine's 2026 Senate race.
10/21/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Outside groups spent or committed more than $54 million on negative ads by Oct. 20 in the Maine Senate race, where Susan Collins and Troy Jackson debated heating costs.
10/20/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Republican- and Democratic-aligned groups have spent an estimated $259 million on Maine Senate advertising ahead of the November 3, 2026 election, with Republican-aligned spending higher.
10/14/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
On October 8, Defending Main Street SuperPAC Inc. began mistakenly showing an anti-Troy Jackson ad to viewers in Portland, Oregon, instead of Portland, Maine.
10/13/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
In October 2026, AdImpact data showed campaigns and outside groups had earmarked nearly $218 million for broadcast ads in the Collins-Jackson Senate race across Maine, the highest per-capita total among competitive Senate contests.
10/31/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Troy Jackson's campaign released a Senate-control ad in Maine less than two weeks before the November 2026 election, arguing Collins's reelection would give Trump a majority.
10/24/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Defending Main Street mistakenly ran a digital attack ad against Troy Jackson in Portland, Oregon, from October 8 through October 11, before redirecting it to Portland, Maine.
10/13/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Troy Jackson and Susan Collins contrasted working-class representation, bipartisan governance, ICE funding, and personal allegations during Friday campaign events across Maine.
8/15/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Troy Jackson criticized Elon Musk in Maine on Sunday after reports that America PAC planned a major field spending operation supporting Susan Collins and other Republicans.
8/3/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Elon Musk's America PAC reportedly plans up to $120 million in Republican Senate spending, including field operations supporting Susan Collins in Maine this fall.
7/31/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Elon Musk's America PAC reportedly plans $100 million to $120 million in Republican Senate spending this fall, including voter outreach for Susan Collins in Maine.
7/31/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Pine Tree Results PAC plans a seven-figure first ad against Troy Jackson in the Maine U.S. Senate race, emphasizing a Jackson-Platner scandal connection.
7/27/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
The Senate Leadership Fund announced at least $42 million in opposition spending against Troy Jackson on the day Maine Democrats selected Jackson as its new Senate nominee.
7/25/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
In the final two weeks before the November 2026 midterm election, Troy Jackson's Maine campaign released an ad arguing Susan Collins's reelection would strengthen Donald Trump's Senate majority.
10/24/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Troy Jackson is launching his first general-election television advertisement against Susan Collins statewide in Maine next week.
8/1/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
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
After a Democratic nomination, Troy Jackson in Maine reports 30,000 new donors and $2 million raised while ActBlue highlights early fundraising activity against Susan Collins.
7/28/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
Troy Jackson reported $2 million in two days after Maine Democratic Party nomination to face incumbent Sen. Susan Collins, as University of New Hampshire polling shows a close contest.
7/27/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
Troy Jackson has raised 1 million dollars since launching the Maine Democratic Senate bid, consolidating delegate support and pulling ahead in a University of New Hampshire poll.
7/22/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
Troy Jackson raised $1 million and gained delegate pledges at Maine Democratic county meetings, while a University of New Hampshire poll gave Jackson a slight edge over Susan Collins for the 2026 Senate matchup.
7/22/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
Troy Jackson reported rapid fundraising momentum after Democratic delegates in Maine pledged support, while a Pine Tree State poll showed a close race versus Susan Collins.
7/22/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
Troy Jacksons campaign reported rapid fundraising momentum in the 2026 Maine Senate race after delegate selection in Bangor as Susan Collins reported much larger cash and outside spending led.
7/22/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
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
Republican-aligned super PACs and nonprofits booked about $126 million in ads supporting Susan Collins in Maine's 2026 Senate race through year-end, while Democratic-aligned groups booked $38.6 million.
10/20/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Troy Jackson is expanding volunteer organizing in Maine on August 26 to challenge Susan Collins amid major Republican financial advantages.
9/4/2026 • Campaign Operations • General
Susan Collins launched attack ads against Democratic nominee Troy Jackson this week in Maine, citing Jackson's record on property taxes and electricity costs.
9/3/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Elon Musk's America PAC disclosed $170,000 in printing expenditures supporting Republican Senator Susan Collins in Maine's 2026 Senate race.
9/3/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Republican-aligned groups have outspent Democratic counterparts and reserved twice as much fall broadcast advertising as Troy Jackson builds his 2026 Senate campaign in Maine.
8/19/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Troy Jackson is making affordability and tax relief central to his 2026 Maine Senate campaign while opponents scrutinize his support for the state's 2013 tax-increasing budget.
8/18/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
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
Affordable Maine spent more than $473,000 by August 12, 2025, airing a Maine advertisement that falsely portrayed Susan Collins's procedural vote as support for the law's Medicaid cuts.
8/12/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Pine Tree Results launched a $1.1 million two-week advertising campaign against Troy Jackson over transgender prison policy during Maine's 2026 Senate race.
9/1/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Democratic nominee Troy Jackson is expanding volunteer operations across Maine to challenge Republican incumbent Susan Collins' financial and organizational advantage in the 2026 Senate race.
9/3/2026 • Campaign Operations • General
On Wednesday in Lewiston, Susan Collins urged the Senate Leadership Fund to withdraw a radio ad targeting Troy Jackson as their 2026 Maine Senate race remained close.
10/23/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Troy Jackson is emphasizing volunteer organizing in Maine during the 2026 Senate campaign as Susan Collins and Republican groups deploy greater financial resources statewide.
9/3/2026 • Campaign Operations • General
In the final week of Maine's 2026 U.S. Senate race, Susan Collins aired an ad criticizing Troy Jackson's qualifications, while Echelon Insights' Tuesday poll showed Jackson ahead 51% to 44%.
10/28/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
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
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
On October 27, 2026, Susan Collins' campaign ran a Maine television ad criticizing Troy Jackson's qualifications, prompting Jackson to defend his logging background and record on heating costs ahead of the November 3 Senate election.
10/27/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
During the 2026 Maine Senate campaign in Maine, Senate Leadership Fund released personal attack ads against Democratic nominee Troy Jackson, while Susan Collins called for the radio ad's removal.
10/28/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
In October 2026, the Senate Leadership Fund and the National Republican Senatorial Committee aired ads targeting Troy Jackson's relationship in Maine's close Senate race against Susan Collins.
10/27/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
By October 20, outside groups and campaigns had spent or committed more than $54 million to negative ads against Collins or Jackson in Maine's 2026 U.S. Senate race, exceeding the state's winter heating assistance.
10/25/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
On October 22, 2026, in Lewiston, Susan Collins disavowed a Senate Leadership Fund radio ad attacking Democratic Senate challenger Troy Jackson and called for its removal.
10/22/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
In October 2026, AdImpact estimated that groups supporting Susan Collins and Troy Jackson had spent $259 million on advertising in Maine's Senate race, the nation's highest total per voting-age resident.
10/18/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
On Wednesday in Lewiston, Maine, Sen. Susan Collins called for a Senate Leadership Fund radio ad attacking Democratic challenger Troy Jackson to be removed.
10/21/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
On Friday, MS NOW hosts Mika Brzezinski and Joe Scarborough criticized Susan Collins's Maine Senate campaign ad targeting Troy Jackson over his firewood-selling background.
10/30/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
During a Morning Joe panel discussion, Claire McCaskill and Joe Scarborough criticized a Susan Collins campaign ad about Troy Jackson's working-class background in the 2026 Maine Senate race.
10/30/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
From October 8 through October 11, Defending Main Street's anti-Troy Jackson digital ad appeared in Oregon and Washington ZIP codes instead of Maine.
10/12/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Susan Collins released a Maine Senate campaign health care advertisement featuring Steven Michaud, prompting Maine AFL-CIO criticism over hospital lobbying and affordability policies.
8/28/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Elon Musk reportedly plans America PAC spending of up to $120 million across battleground races, including Susan Collins's 2026 Maine Senate campaign.
8/4/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Less than two weeks before Election Day in Maine, Troy Jackson's campaign released an ad portraying Susan Collins' reelection as a path to Republican Senate control and greater power for Donald Trump.
10/24/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Elon Musk's America PAC spent $170,000 supporting Susan Collins in Maine during the 2026 Senate contest, adding Republican outside spending to a competitive race.
9/14/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
On Wednesday in Augusta, Susan Collins and Troy Jackson condemned attack ads in Maine's 2026 Senate race, while the Maine Women's Lobby endorsed Jackson.
10/21/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Candidates and allied political groups spent or reserved $315 million for political ads across Maine ahead of the Nov. 3, 2026, midterm election, with the Collins-Jackson Senate race drawing the most.
10/17/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
The Republican Main Street Partnership mistakenly aired an anti-Troy Jackson ad in Portland, Oregon, during the 2026 Maine Senate campaign, then removed it and received a refund.
10/12/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
During the 2026 Maine Senate campaign, Defending Main Street spent $20,000 to $25,000 on an anti-Troy Jackson video ad that Google records showed targeted Portland, Oregon, instead of Portland, Maine.
10/12/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
A Republican group supporting Susan Collins mistakenly bought nearly $25,000 in anti-Troy Jackson advertising in Portland, Oregon, before Cross Screen Media refunded the PAC and the ad moved to Maine.
10/12/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
In the 2026 Maine Senate contest, Republican super PAC Defending Main Street spent up to $25,000 airing a tax attack ad against Troy Jackson in Portland, Oregon, instead of Portland, Maine.
10/12/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Susan Collins disputed a Senate Majority PAC ad this week over Medicaid votes and birthing-center closures in Maine ahead of the November 2026 Senate election.
9/30/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
A New York Times/Siena poll conducted September 15-22 showed Susan Collins leading Troy Jackson 49% to 46% among likely voters in Maine, while Jackson's campaign ad drew bipartisan criticism.
9/30/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Campaigns and outside political groups are saturating Maine television, radio, and digital platforms with competing Troy Jackson and Susan Collins advertisements during the 2026 Senate race.
9/18/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Pine Tree Results launched a $1.1 million Maine advertising campaign during the 2026 Senate race attacking Troy Jackson over transgender prison housing policy.
9/14/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
WinSenate released a Maine television ad supporting Troy Jackson that PolitiFact rated Mostly False for claims about Medicaid expansion and Susan Collins' voting record.
9/14/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
The Senate Leadership Fund launched a video advertisement in Maine targeting Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson over his state legislative tax record during the 2026 Senate contest.
9/11/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Pine Tree Results launched a $1.1 million attack campaign against Troy Jackson in Maine over his prison housing vote and allegations involving inmate Andrea Balcer.
9/2/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Americans for Tax Reform criticized Maine Senate Democratic nominee Troy Jackson in August for supporting removal of the federal payroll tax cap, citing effects on Maine small businesses and workers.
8/20/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Maine Democrats launched a Lewiston healthcare-focused tour during the Senate recess, criticizing Susan Collins for supporting procedural advancement of President Donald Trump's bill.
8/7/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Troy Jackson launched a seven-figure introductory television advertisement in Maine after becoming the Democratic Senate nominee, targeting incumbent Republican Susan Collins on working-class economic concerns.
8/3/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Troy Jackson's campaign released an ad linking Susan Collins's reelection to Republican Senate control less than two weeks before the 2026 election in Maine.
10/24/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Troy Jackson raised $5.3 million through ActBlue in July after winning Maine's Democratic nomination in Bangor, but Susan Collins held a major reserved-advertising advantage.
8/21/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
One week before Election Day in Maine's 2026 U.S. Senate race, Democratic nominee Troy Jackson launched a seven-figure closing ad blitz against Republican incumbent Susan Collins, emphasizing economic costs and healthcare.
10/27/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
On October 27, 2026, Susan Collins' Maine Senate campaign shared an advertisement questioning Troy Jackson's qualifications for the Senate.
10/27/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
On Wednesday in Lewiston, Susan Collins called for the Senate Leadership Fund to remove its Maine radio ad attacking Troy Jackson over his family relationship.
10/22/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
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
America PAC spent $170,224 on mail advertising for Susan Collins in Maine between August 18 and August 31, according to a Federal Election Commission filing.
9/4/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson are exchanging increasingly negative television advertisements in the 2026 U.S. Senate race in Maine, focusing on healthcare, Medicaid, personal history, and campaign financing.
8/21/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson escalated television attacks over healthcare, past conduct, and campaign financing in Maine during the 2026 Senate contest.
8/21/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Affordable Maine ran a July-August 2026 Maine advertisement accusing Susan Collins of supporting Medicaid cuts, despite Collins opposing the bill's final Senate vote.
8/19/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Interesting
On October 15, 2026, Maine Senate nominee Troy Jackson filed a report disclosing $20.4 million in fundraising and billionaire contributions, following a debate in Bangor.
10/17/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
Troy Jackson reported $20.4 million in first-quarter fundraising in an FEC filing submitted before a Thursday debate in Bangor, Maine, while Susan Collins reported $5.2 million.
10/16/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
On Thursday in Maine, Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson announced plans to donate about $15,000 in oil and pharmaceutical lobbyist contributions to four charities.
10/15/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
Susan Collins' campaign reported $3.9 million in third-quarter 2026 fundraising in Maine, while Troy Jackson was reported to have raised $20.4 million.
10/15/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
During the 2026 Maine Senate campaign, records showed Susan Collins had signed overlapping principal-residence pledges for Washington homes while owning a Bangor home, complicating attacks on Troy Jackson.
10/16/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Troy Jackson's personal and campaign financial disclosures remain delayed until October 5 and October 15 as Maine voters begin early voting.
9/8/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
In late October 2026, Democratic Senate candidate Troy Jackson campaigned across Maine, countering Susan Collins' wood-related attack with messaging on heating costs and working-class credibility before the November 3 election.
10/31/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
In October 2026, Susan Collins's campaign ran an NRSC-funded ad questioning Troy Jackson's qualifications in Maine, prompting labor and Democratic criticism during a close U.S. Senate race.
10/30/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
In late October 2026, Susan Collins's NRSC-funded ad criticizing Troy Jackson prompted a public messaging dispute over working-class credentials and home-heating costs in Maine's U.S. Senate race.
10/29/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
In the final days of Maine's 2026 U.S. Senate race, Susan Collins and Troy Jackson released competing campaign ads, including Collins's controversial Cord of Wood spot featuring Bill Green.
10/28/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
During the 2026 Maine Senate campaign, Susan Collins's campaign aired an ad criticizing Troy Jackson's qualifications, prompting backlash across Maine as polls showed Jackson narrowly ahead.
10/28/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
In 2026, Susan Collins' campaign aired an ad criticizing Troy Jackson's qualifications in Maine, drawing criticism from former Collins aide Sam Patten amid a close Senate race.
10/28/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
In October 2026, Susan Collins' campaign aired a Maine Senate ad featuring Bill Green that criticized Troy Jackson's qualifications, drawing classism complaints as cited polling showed Jackson ahead.
10/27/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
On October 27, 2026, Susan Collins' campaign released a Maine Senate ad criticizing Troy Jackson's qualifications, prompting classism criticism as polling showed Jackson ahead.
10/27/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
On Thursday in Maine, laundromat owner Kelly Kusnirak said a videographer misled her about footage later used in a CFFE PAC advertisement supporting Senate nominee Troy Jackson.
10/29/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
During the 2026 Maine Senate campaign, the Senate Leadership Fund aired personal attack ads against Troy Jackson, while Susan Collins called for one radio ad's removal.
10/28/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
During the 2026 Maine Senate campaign, the Senate Leadership Fund released a radio ad attacking Troy Jackson over his relationship with Lana Pelletier, prompting scrutiny of Susan Collins' response.
10/27/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
On October 28, 2026, Susan Collins called for a Senate Leadership Fund radio ad targeting Troy Jackson to be removed from Maine's Senate campaign.
10/28/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
During the 2026 U.S. Senate contest in Maine, the Senate Leadership Fund aired a country-song radio attack ad targeting Democrat Troy Jackson, and Susan Collins called for its removal.
10/23/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
The Maine Women's Lobby endorsed Democratic Senate candidate Troy Jackson on Wednesday in Maine, while advocates and former lawmakers criticized a Senate Leadership Fund ad targeting Jackson.
10/22/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Former Maine legislators, Portland Mayor Mark Dion and the Maine Women's Lobby backed Troy Jackson and criticized a Senate Leadership Fund ad at a Portland event.
10/22/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
On Thursday in Lewiston, Sen. Susan Collins called for the Senate Leadership Fund to withdraw its radio ad attacking Democratic challenger Troy Jackson.
10/22/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
The Senate Leadership Fund aired a radio attack on Troy Jackson in Maine on Tuesday, two weeks before Election Day, while Susan Collins called for the ad to be removed Wednesday in Lewiston.
10/21/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
On October 21, 2026, Susan Collins called for a Senate Leadership Fund radio ad targeting Troy Jackson to be removed during a campaign appearance in Lewiston, Maine.
10/21/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
On Wednesday in Lewiston, Maine, Susan Collins called for a Senate Leadership Fund radio ad attacking Troy Jackson to be removed while denying involvement.
10/21/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
On Wednesday in Lewiston, Susan Collins called for the Senate Leadership Fund's radio attack ad against Troy Jackson to be removed while denying involvement.
10/21/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Senate Leadership Fund ran a personal-attack radio ad targeting Troy Jackson in Maine during the 2026 Senate race, and Susan Collins called for its removal Wednesday in Lewiston.
10/21/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
The Senate Leadership Fund began circulating a 60-second radio ad attacking Troy Jackson on social media Tuesday in the Maine Senate campaign.
10/20/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
On Wednesday in Lewiston, Sen. Susan Collins disavowed a Senate Leadership Fund radio ad targeting Troy Jackson and called for the ad's removal.
10/22/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
In the 2026 Maine Senate race, Susan Collins called for a Republican super PAC to remove its radio ad attacking Democratic candidate Troy Jackson over his relationship with Lana Pelletier.
10/22/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
On Wednesday in Maine, Susan Collins called for a Senate Leadership Fund ad targeting Democratic challenger Troy Jackson over his family relationship to be taken down.
10/21/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
During the 2026 Maine Senate campaign, Lana Pelletier criticized Susan Collins and allied groups for family-focused attacks on Troy Jackson in Maine, as polling showed a close race.
10/22/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
On Wednesday in Lewiston, Maine, Sen. Susan Collins called for a Senate Leadership Fund radio ad attacking Democratic challenger Troy Jackson to be taken down.
10/21/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson campaigned Friday in Kittery and Westbrook, Maine, exchanging attacks over labor policy, past allegations, and immigration enforcement before the November Senate election.
8/14/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
During the 2026 Maine Senate campaign, the Senate Leadership Fund and Susan Collins's campaign aired attack ads targeting Troy Jackson, drawing criticism in Maine.
10/28/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
During the 2026 Maine Senate campaign, a Susan Collins ad featuring Allagash firefighter Ronnie Pelletier accused Troy Jackson of influencing a cellphone tower's placement in Allagash, Maine.
10/25/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
In 2026 in Scarborough, Maine, Kelly Kusnirak said the Campaign for a Family Friendly Economy PAC used her affordability comments in an anti-Susan Collins ad without her understanding its purpose.
10/30/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
In 2026, Kelly Kusnirak of Scarborough said a CFFE PAC ad supporting Troy Jackson used her image after she believed she was filming for Susan Collins.
10/30/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
In October 2026, Maine laundromat owner Kelly Kusnirack alleged that a PAC-funded Troy Jackson campaign ad misrepresented its purpose during filming in Maine.
10/29/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
In Maine, laundromat owner Kelly Kusnirack said months after filming in the spring that a PAC-funded ad used her video to support Troy Jackson, not Susan Collins.
10/29/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Kelly Kusnirak alleged Thursday that a PAC supporting Troy Jackson used her interview footage in an ad without her understanding, in Maine.
10/29/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
CFFE PAC aired a streaming ad supporting Troy Jackson in Maine's 2026 Senate race using footage filmed at Kelly Kusnirak's Scarborough-area laundromat last spring, she says.
10/29/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
On Thursday in Maine, laundromat owner Kelly Kusnirak alleged that a pro-Troy Jackson PAC used her interview in a Senate campaign ad without her informed agreement.
10/29/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
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
On Thursday in Maine, Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson announced a roughly $15,000 donation of lobbyist contributions to four assistance organizations before the campaign filing deadline.
10/15/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
Troy Jackson raised more than $5.3 million through ActBlue in July after becoming Maine Democrats' Senate nominee, while polls showed a close contest with Susan Collins.
9/20/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
In 2026, Scarborough Republican Kelly Kusnirak said she had been misled about an advertisement that supported Troy Jackson rather than Susan Collins in Maine's Senate race.
10/29/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
In the final week before Maine's November 3 Senate election, Kelly Kusnirak disputed the use of her image in a Jackson-supporting affordability ad filmed in Scarborough, and the sponsoring PAC removed the ad.
10/29/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Troy Jackson raised more than $5.3 million through ActBlue in July after Maine Democrats selected Jackson as the 2026 Senate nominee, while Susan Collins maintained a larger reported cash reserve.
8/21/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
In Maine, Susan Collins's campaign recently aired an attack ad against Troy Jackson that drew backlash as a Marist poll showed Jackson leading by two points among likely voters.
10/27/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Susan Collins released an ad in the 2026 Maine Senate race using Troy Jackson's October 15 debate remark to present him as dismissive of Maine women.
10/23/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Susan Collins's campaign is airing an ad in Maine less than two weeks before Election Day, using Troy Jackson's October 15 debate remark to criticize him.
10/23/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Susan Collins's campaign and the Senate Republicans' campaign arm released an attack ad in Maine during the 2026 Senate race, portraying Democratic opponent Troy Jackson as a bully over a debate remark and reports about his conduct toward colleagues.
10/23/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
Lana Pelletier criticized a super PAC attack on Troy Jackson's family ties, while Susan Collins addressed campaign attacks in Lewiston on Wednesday morning.
10/22/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
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
Elon Musk's America PAC spent nearly $170,000 on print electioneering targeting Troy Jackson in Maine's 2026 Senate race.
9/8/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
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
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
Elon Musk's super PAC spent nearly $170,000 this week on print electioneering targeting Troy Jackson in Maine, supporting Susan Collins's Senate reelection bid.
9/4/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
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
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
WinSenate launched a Maine television ad featuring Troy Jackson that attacks Susan Collins over her procedural vote on legislation involving Medicaid and tax policy.
9/4/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
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
Troy Jackson criticized a Collins-supporting super PAC in Maine for spending more than $1 million on advertisements about transgender prison placement during the 2026 Senate campaign.
9/3/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Troy Jackson reported $20.4 million in third-quarter fundraising in his first financial filing for the 2026 U.S. Senate race in Maine, while incumbent Susan Collins reported $5.2 million.
10/16/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
Troy Jackson raised more than $5.3 million through ActBlue in July after replacing Graham Platner as Maine's Democratic Senate nominee.
8/21/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
During the 2026 Maine Senate campaign, Susan Collins' campaign ran a closing ad questioning Troy Jackson's qualifications, prompting criticism in Maine and across political media.
10/27/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
On Wednesday in Maine, the Senate Leadership Fund aired a radio ad attacking Troy Jackson, prompting Susan Collins to deny involvement and request its removal.
10/21/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
The Senate Leadership Fund aired a radio attack ad targeting Troy Jackson in Maine last week, drawing criticism from Sam Patten over its family-focused message.
10/25/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Troy Jackson disclosed $138,000 in union consulting income this week in Maine as the Democratic Senate nominee challenging Republican Susan Collins faced scrutiny over labor ties and campaign transparency.
10/8/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
Troy Jackson's campaign released its delayed financial report on Thursday in Maine, disclosing large donations as Election Day approached and Susan Collins criticized his transparency.
10/17/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
On Thursday in Maine, Democratic U.S. Senate nominee Troy Jackson announced he would donate about $15,000 in oil and pharmaceutical lobbyist contributions to four charities before his final debate with Susan Collins.
10/15/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
On Wednesday, Susan Collins campaigned in Bath and Troy Jackson canvassed in Brunswick as the candidates contested a close Maine Senate race.
10/29/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
Susan Collins released a Maine Senate campaign ad after an October 15 debate, using Troy Jackson's remark to frame an attack aimed at women voters.
10/23/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
On Wednesday in Lewiston, Susan Collins responded to Lana Pelletier's criticism of attack ads against Troy Jackson by saying anti-Collins ads have also made personal attacks.
10/22/2026 • Campaign Messaging & Media • General
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
Between August 19 and 31, Elon Musk's America PAC spent roughly $170,000 supporting Susan Collins and opposing Troy Jackson in Maine's U.S. Senate race.
9/3/2026 • Outside Spending & Advocacy • General
Additional
In the 2026 Maine Senate campaign, Susan Collins ran an ad questioning Troy Jackson's qualifications, and Jackson responded by highlighting heating costs and his working-class experience.
10/28/2026 • Candidates & Campaigns • General
On October 14 in Maine, Susan Collins's campaign criticized Democratic Senate candidate Troy Jackson for not releasing promised finance details before the midnight federal filing deadline.
10/15/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General
As early voting began in Maine ahead of the November 3, 2026 election, Troy Jackson faced donor-disclosure criticism while polling showed a close Senate contest with Susan Collins.
10/14/2026 • Fundraising & Donors • General