Former Maine Senate President Troy Jackson has won support from a majority of delegates to effectively secure the Democratic nomination, replacing Graham Platner as the party's candidate to challenge Republican Senator Susan Collins in November.
At least six Maine Democrats are vying to replace Graham Platner as the party's Senate nominee after the progressive candidate suspended his campaign amid a rape accusation from a former girlfriend. The state Democratic Party will select a replacement to face Sen. Susan Collins in the fall election.
Maine's Democratic Party stated that U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner would not be able to select his replacement if he drops out of the race, while accusing his campaign of attempting to influence the replacement process. Platner's team has denied the accusations.
Marine veteran and oyster farmer Graham Platner secured the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate in Maine with 72% of the vote, defeating Governor Janet Mills. He will face incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins in the general election despite revelations about his past.
U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson, D-Fla., a former teacher and principal known for her colorful outfits and matching hats, announced Friday she will not seek re-election this fall. Florida Sen. Shevrin Jones is seeking the District 24 seat.
Maine Governor Janet Mills suspended her U.S. Senate campaign on April 30, 2026, citing lack of financial resources. Her exit effectively hands the Democratic nomination to Graham Platner, a 41-year-old military veteran and oyster farmer, who will face Republican incumbent Sen. Susan Collins in a race crucial to Democrats' hopes of winning Senate control.
Democrats dominated Election Day 2025, winning gubernatorial races in Virginia and New Jersey and New York's mayoral contest, as voters cited economic concerns and rejected President Trump's endorsed candidates in the first major elections since his return to the White House.
