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Politics · November 4, 2026

Troy Jackson Defeats Susan Collins in Maine Senate Race

Part of: Maine Senate: Collins vs. Jackson →
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Democrat Troy Jackson has defeated Republican incumbent Susan Collins in Maine’s 2026 U.S. Senate race, ending her 30-year tenure. Jackson, a 58-year-old former Maine Senate president and professional logger, entered the race in July after Graham Platner withdrew following sexual misconduct allegations. Collins conceded early Wednesday morning, with major outlets calling the race as Jackson led by approximately five percentage points with roughly two-thirds of the vote counted. The victory is a significant gain for Democrats as they seek control of the Senate, flipping a seat long held by a Republican known for a bipartisan image. Jackson's campaign focused on working-class issues and tied Collins to President Trump, while Collins highlighted her seniority and moderate record.

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Reported across the spectrum

  • Democrat Troy Jackson defeated Republican Senator Susan Collins in the 2026 Maine Senate election
  • Susan Collins has served in the U.S. Senate for 30 years
  • Susan Collins conceded the race to Troy Jackson
  • Troy Jackson became the Democratic nominee in July after Graham Platner withdrew from the race
  • The race was called early Wednesday morning with Jackson leading by approximately 5 percentage points

Reported by only some outlets

  • Troy Jackson is the former President of the Maine Senate
  • Graham Platner withdrew from the race following sexual misconduct allegations
  • Jackson led Collins by 5 percent with 68 percent of the vote counted when CNN called the race
  • The Associated Press declared Jackson the winner at 1:02 a.m. EST
  • Maine has supported Democrats for president since 1992
  • President Trump lost Maine by about 7 percentage points in 2024
  • Troy Jackson's son worked as a lobbyist
  • Jackson grew up in Allagash, a town of about 230 people

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