Graham Platner faces growing pressure to end his U.S. Senate campaign following allegations of sexual assault that emerged Monday. As Democratic leaders withdraw support, longtime Maine Democrat Troy Jackson has filed paperwork to position himself as a potential replacement should the nomination opportunity arise.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and other prominent Democrats have urged Platner to withdraw his candidacy. Platner has categorically denied the allegations but remains in the race. Under Maine law, the deadline for Platner to step down is Monday, July 13, to allow the state Democratic Party time to select a new nominee by July 27.
Troy Jackson, who recently lost the Democratic gubernatorial primary, submitted a statement of candidacy with the Federal Election Commission. While he has not formally declared his Senate bid, Jackson criticized the allegations against Platner on social media, emphasizing his ongoing evaluation of the best path to advance progressive priorities in the state.
Both Jackson and Platner previously campaigned as part of Maine’s progressive movement, aligning with platforms on economic and social issues. Their efforts earned backing from independent Senator Bernie Sanders. However, following the allegations, Sanders’ affiliated progressive organization, Our Revolution, shifted its endorsement from Platner to Jackson, citing urgency to secure a “real progressive” on the November ballot.
Jackson’s political ties to Sanders date to the 2016 presidential race, when he supported Sanders over Hillary Clinton. He later served as Sanders’ Maine political director and helped introduce him at campaign events. Sanders publicly praised Jackson’s work in Maine, highlighting his lifelong advocacy for working-class communities as a logger, legislator, and candidate.
During his gubernatorial campaign, Jackson championed policies including universal childcare, Medicare for All, and a Department of Affordable Housing. His platform secured endorsements from over 20 labor unions, reinforcing his standing as a progressive advocate. Notably, Jackson has won elections in Aroostook County, a region that has overwhelmingly supported former President Donald Trump in recent years.
Jackson attributes his success to a focus on economic issues rather than partisan labels. With Platner’s future in the Senate race uncertain, Jackson’s potential entry into the contest represents a pivotal moment for Maine’s Democratic primary, as progressive and establishment factions navigate the nomination process.
