Troy Jackson faces scrutiny over second-cousin relationship with partner as he launches first general election ad against Susan Collins
Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Troy Jackson has launched his first general election advertisement, highlighting his background as a labor organizer and a fifth-generation logger. The 30-second spot aims to paint Republican Senator Susan Collins as an establishment figure who has failed to provide adequate healthcare, housing, and heat for struggling Mainers. Jackson, who replaced Graham Platner on the Democratic ticket after Platner withdrew due to a sexual assault allegation, is currently navigating a compressed timeline to build statewide momentum. While Jackson emphasizes his anti-establishment message, he faces criticism from Republicans who label him a career politician. The campaign also faces scrutiny over reports that Jackson and his partner, Lana Pelletier, are second cousins, a fact that Jackson dismissed as a political distraction. To win, Jackson must consolidate Democratic support and appeal to ticket-splitters who previously backed Susan Collins and Joe Biden. He faces a significant financial hurdle, as Collins holds a war chest of over $11 million, while Jackson's campaign has raised only $2 million since winning the nomination.