Troy Jackson, a candidate for the Maine Senate, is trying to distance himself from far-left associations, even as he has previously garnered support from notable figures like Hasan Piker and the Maine chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America. He expressed confusion over labeling himself, stating, “I don’t really consider myself anything. I’m upset a lot at the Democratic Party. What I know is I fight for working-class people,” in a conversation with CNN’s Manu Raju.
Jackson has rapidly become a preferred choice among grassroots supporters, particularly following the exit of scandal-plagued oyster farmer Graham Platner, who stepped down amid a rape allegation he denied.
Left-leaning activists have drawn parallels between Jackson and Platner, noting that Jackson has campaigned alongside him on multiple occasions. Piker even made a statement on X, emphasizing the potential risk to the Senate majority if the Democratic establishment fails to find a suitable replacement for Platner, insisting, “[T]roy Jackson is him!”
However, Piker, known for controversial comments in 2019 regarding 9/11—a statement he later regretted—has become a contentious figure for the Democrats. His connections raise concerns that could complicate Jackson’s campaign.
In the past, Jackson admitted to not knowing much about Piker when asked about their association. He has also proudly shared on social media how the Maine DSA endorsed him during his gubernatorial run.
In a post, Jackson addressed Maine’s workers, saying, “To the loggers, farmers, teachers, truck drivers, nurses, postal workers, shipbuilders, childcare providers, and everyone else who makes this state run while getting run down in the process: let’s take back what’s ours.”
Ultimately, Jackson finished third in the Maine Democratic gubernatorial primary, and his supporters point out that the Maine DSA hasn’t yet made an endorsement in the current Senate race. The national DSA’s platform advocates significant changes, including abolishing the executive branch and restructuring the Senate. When asked about his stance on the national DSA platform, Jackson firmly replied, “No,” although he emphasized his support for a government that serves everyday citizens.
Jackson’s appeal to the progressive left can be traced back to his leadership role in Bernie Sanders’ 2016 campaign in Maine, which has garnered him Sanders’ backing for both his gubernatorial and Senate runs. Currently, Jackson holds a slight lead over incumbent Senator Susan Collins, according to the latest polling, but Collins has historically outperformed expectations in elections.
