Maine Democrat Troy Jackson is a second cousin to his longtime partner Lana Pelletier.
Maine Democrat Troy Jackson has been revealed to be second cousins with his longtime partner, Lana Pelletier. The couple, who grew up together in Allagash, Maine, share the same great-grandparents and have lived as husband and wife for years despite never officially marrying. While relationships between second cousins are legal in Maine, the revelation comes as Jackson prepares to run for U.S. Senate against Republican Sen. Susan Collins. Jackson accepted the nomination after the original Democratic nominee, Graham Platner, withdrew due to sexual assault allegations. The Maine Secretary of State's Office has stated it will not intervene in the eligibility of Jackson's candidacy. While some argue that Maine's 'sore loser' law might disqualify him after his loss in the Democratic primary for governor, the state's office maintains that Jackson remains on the ballot. Barring a successful legal challenge, Jackson's candidacy remains secure for the general election.