Troy Jackson Considers Senate Run Amidst Platner Allegations

With pressure increasing on Graham Platner to end his Senate campaign following rape allegations on Monday, Troy Jackson, a veteran Maine Democrat, has moved closer to joining the U.S. Senate race. On Tuesday, Jackson filed paperwork indicating his readiness to step in if the Democratic nomination becomes available.

Leading Democratic figures, such as Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., have withdrawn support from Platner and called for his campaign’s end. Platner has rejected the allegations, labeling them as false, and has chosen to remain in the race.

Under Maine law, Platner has until Monday, July 13, to withdraw, allowing Democrats the opportunity to replace him on the ballot for November’s election. If Platner exits before this deadline, the state Democratic Party will have until July 27 to select a new nominee.

Jackson, who recently lost the Democratic gubernatorial primary, signaled his potential Senate bid by filing a candidacy statement with the Federal Election Commission. He later addressed social media, condemning the allegations against Platner but clarifying that he has not yet made a decision on pursuing the nomination.

Platner Campaign Accusations

Former State Senator Troy Jackson, D-Maine, previously a gubernatorial candidate, expressed gratitude for the support received amidst the Platner controversy. He stated, “While I haven’t made any final decisions yet, I’m deeply humbled by the outpouring of support and encouragement I’ve received.” Jackson further emphasized his commitment to supporting progressive causes and the working-class movement in Maine.

Both Jackson and Platner ran progressive campaigns during the 2026 election cycle, often appearing together at various events. Their platforms were aligned, and they received endorsements from Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt.

Following the allegations against Platner, Our Revolution, Sanders’ progressive political group, shifted its endorsement from Platner to Jackson. Joseph Geevarghese, Executive Director of Our Revolution, stressed the urgency of organizing to ensure a strong progressive candidate appears on the ballot.

Jackson’s Political Connections

Jackson’s ties with Sanders span over a decade. He supported Sanders during the 2016 Democratic presidential primary against Hillary Clinton and served as Sanders’ Maine political director, introducing him at rallies across the state. Sanders returned the favor by endorsing Jackson’s gubernatorial bid.

During a rally, Sanders highlighted Jackson’s lifetime commitment to advocating for Maine’s working class, labeling him as both a logger and dedicated legislator.

Jackson’s Legislative Career

A fifth-generation logger, Jackson is renowned in Maine as a labor Democrat, having spent over two decades in the state legislature, including six years as Maine Senate President. Throughout his gubernatorial campaign, Jackson championed issues like universal child care, Medicare for all, and affordable housing, with endorsements from more than 20 labor unions.

Despite his progressive stance, Jackson has achieved electoral success in one of Maine’s Republican strongholds, representing northern Aroostook County, which has heavily supported President Donald Trump in past elections. Jackson attributes his victories to his focus on economic issues affecting the working class beyond partisan divides.

Fox News Digital sought comments from Jackson. Elaine Mallon reports for Fox News Digital and Fox Business, focusing on national politics.