WATCH: Dems stand by Maine nominee hit with report he fathered children with his second cousin
Democratic senators are continuing to back Troy Jackson, their nominee for the US Senate seat in Maine, despite a fresh report alleging that he fathered children with his second cousin. Jackson stepped into the race after previous candidate Graham Platner withdrew from the Democratic primary earlier this summer amid a series of scandals, including sexual misconduct allegations, leaving Jackson to take on Republican incumbent Susan Collins in the general election.
When approached by Fox News Digital about the allegations, Democratic senators reportedly avoided giving direct answers, declining to withdraw their support for Jackson's candidacy. The controversy adds to a turbulent period for Maine's Senate race, which had already been upended once this year by Platner's withdrawal, and raises fresh questions about how the party will navigate the contest against Collins.
In short
- Democrats still back Maine nominee Troy Jackson despite fresh allegations.
- Report claims Jackson fathered children with his second cousin.
- He replaced Graham Platner, who quit amid misconduct claims.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters of Jackson argue that unproven allegations about personal relationships should not disqualify someone from public office, particularly between consenting adults whose family relationship is relatively distant. They contend that focus should remain on his policy positions and qualifications rather than personal matters, and that Democrats should not withdraw support based on accusations alone, as this risks establishing a dangerous precedent of guilt by allegation whilst denying due process.
The case against
Critics contend that such allegations, if substantiated, raise legitimate questions about judgment and character for a candidate seeking high office. They argue that decisions affecting one's own family members reflect on a candidate's values and decision-making capacity in ways voters are entitled to consider. Given the party has already replaced one nominee owing to scandals this year, they maintain that Democratic credibility requires taking such concerns seriously rather than extending support without scrutiny.
Explained simply
Maine elects one of its two US senators every six years, and the seat in this race is held by Republican Susan Collins. The Democratic Party chooses a nominee through a primary election, who then faces the Republican candidate in the general election.
Troy Jackson is the Democrats’ nominee after Graham Platner left the primary contest following a series of controversies. A report has alleged that Jackson fathered children with his second cousin; the allegation is a report, not an established finding.
The race matters because its outcome could affect which party controls the Senate, where each party’s support can shape votes on laws and government appointments. For Democrats, the contest also involves choosing how to support their nominee while challenging a long-serving incumbent.