Maine Democratic delegates selected State Senate President Troy Jackson as their nominee for the U.S. Senate on Saturday. Jackson, a former logger from Allagash, will face incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins in the upcoming general election. The selection occurred during a special nominating convention held to fill a vacancy on the Democratic ticket.
Jackson secured the party's support after Sarah Platner, the only other candidate to file for the position, withdrew from the race. Platner cited a desire for party unity when announcing her decision to step aside, allowing Jackson to proceed as the consensus choice of the delegates present at the convention.
The seat is currently held by Sen. Collins, who has served in the U.S. Senate since 1997. Jackson has served in the Maine Legislature for nearly two decades, including roles in both the House and the Senate. The general election is scheduled for November.