Stories
Susan Collins and Troy Jackson Face Off in High-Stakes Maine Senate Race
- •Republican Senator Susan Collins is seeking her sixth term in a closely contested Senate race against Democrat Troy Jackson in Maine.
- •Recent polls show a tight race, with surveys indicating a dead heat or narrow leads alternating between the two candidates.
- •Former US President Barack Obama endorsed Troy Jackson, providing the Democratic challenger with a major national campaign boost.
- •The candidates have clashed in debates over key issues including healthcare, abortion rights, Supreme Court reforms, and immigration.
- •Control of the US Senate hangs in the balance, making the Maine election a critical battleground for both political parties.
Key Questions Answered
Polling shows a tightly contested race, with recent surveys showing mixed results. A Marist poll from October 6 gave Troy Jackson a narrow lead over Susan Collins at 51% to 47%, whereas a CBS News/YouGov poll had the candidates tied at 50% each. Conversely, an earlier New York Times/Siena University poll gave Collins an edge with 49% to 46%.
Troy Jackson entered the Senate race in July after the previous Democratic candidate, Graham Platner, withdrew amid controversy surrounding a sexual assault allegation made by a former partner. This unexpected change forced Democrats to rapidly redirect their campaign focus around Jackson.
Former US president Barack Obama officially endorsed Troy Jackson on October 8. In an endorsement video, Obama praised Jackson's background as a logger and his legislative record on issues like raising wages and lowering prescription drug costs.
