Republican Senator Susan Collins and Democratic challenger Troy Jackson faced off in their first debate in Maine. The debate covered key issues such as Trump, the cost of living, and abortion, highlighting one of the closely watched Senate races. With the Democrats aiming to gain Senate majority, Jackson linked Collins to Trump, referencing the president multiple times.

Jackson emphasized, It matters who you stand with. I don’t owe Donald Trump and the billionaires anything. I don’t fight for billionaires like she does. In contrast, Collins highlighted her opposition to several Trump administration policies.

The debate is part of a series, with three more scheduled in the coming weeks. The next debate is planned for Thursday, followed by two additional debates on October 13 and 15.

Meanwhile, in Michigan, gubernatorial candidate John James distanced himself from Trump’s immigration policies during a debate. He stated, We’re going to be cooperating with law enforcement as well as our communities. He emphasized the focus on violent offenders and enforcement of the law without an ICE presence.

In another segment of the Michigan debate, Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson accused James of supporting Trump’s tariffs, calling them a “John James tax.” James refuted this, citing opposition to tariffs and efforts to negotiate fair trade agreements.

Senator Collins commented on the possibility of Trump visiting Maine, expressing skepticism, “I don’t think that President Trump is going to come to Maine.” She noted that Trump’s focus is on various other states.

Across several debates, topics like the Iran war and data center regulations have emerged. In Michigan’s congressional debates, candidates expressed differing views on AI regulation, with calls for stricter laws to combat cybercrime and pause AI advancements.

Additionally, California officials condemned Trump’s remarks on Iran potentially targeting Los Angeles or San Diego. They labeled his comments as “irresponsible.”