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Troy Jackson takes over for Graham Platner against Susan Collins.
Slate Magazine • • nation
Key Points:
- Maine Democrats are set to officially nominate Troy Jackson as their U.S. Senate candidate through a quasi-improvised convention, making his nomination a foregone conclusion after a chaotic primary process.
- The race was destabilized by incumbent Governor Janet Mills' indecision and the scandal-ridden candidacy of Graham Platner, who withdrew amid serious allegations just before the deadline.
- To select a new nominee quickly, Democrats organized county conventions to elect delegates to a state convention, resulting in low turnout and a delegate slate dominated by Jackson’s supporters and union allies.
- Jackson’s campaign successfully consolidated support by encouraging voters to select his entire delegate slate, leading to a near sweep of delegates and the withdrawal of most other candidates.
- While the convention process is historically normal in American politics, this year's Maine Senate race stands out for its unusual turbulence, making the upcoming convention a rare moment of procedural normalcy.
