KITTERY, Maine
Republican Senator Susan Collins has commented on her Democratic challenger, Troy Jackson, saying he seems to be “having a hard time controlling his anger.” This remark follows the resurfacing of a police record from 1988, which details Jackson’s involvement in an assault during a late-night confrontation in Fort Kent, Maine.
Jackson, who previously served as a logger and was once the state Senate president, was appointed by the Maine Democratic Party to take over the candidacy after Graham Platner stepped down due to rape allegations, which he has denied.
Polling Insights in Maine’s Senate Race
The race between Jackson and Collins is crucial as it could impact the balance of power in the Senate, where Republicans currently hold a slim majority. A recent Fox News poll indicated Jackson has a slight lead over Collins, but it’s within the margin of error.
Collins addressed questions about Jackson’s past during a statewide bus tour, stating, “He’s the one who has to respond to the reports. I’m not going to comment on that. But I will say that based on widespread reporting, he seems to be having a hard time controlling his anger.”
According to a police report, the 1988 incident involved Jackson, who was 19 at the time, allegedly assaulting another man during a fight. At the heart of the altercation was Jackson’s partner, Lana Pelletier, who, it was reported, he pushed down, though she has since denied ever making that statement.
In a response to the resurfaced allegations, Jackson asserted, “Nearly 40 years ago, when I was 19 years old, I got into a fight with another man. I took responsibility then, and I still take responsibility.” He emphasized that he has never been violent toward Pelletier or any woman, claiming this incident does not reflect who he is today.
Pelletier, in her defense, stated she does not recall making any statements attributed to her in the police report, suggesting that it is the first time she has seen it. She affirmed their long-term partnership and the life they have built together since then.
Republicans have seized on this situation, equating Jackson to his predecessor Platner, labeling him as “Violent and unhinged,” in reference to the allegations surrounding Platner’s candidacy.
As scrutiny of Jackson’s past grows, some within the Democratic Party are worried about having another unvetted candidate following the issues with Platner. Collins noted the importance of thorough vetting, prompting a discussion about the lessons learned from the prior candidate’s fallout.
Jackson’s platform aligns with the progressive movement, advocating for tax increases on billionaires, universal health care, and a contentious stance against military aid to Israel, an issue that divides many Democrats.
