Troy Jackson, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate, addressed the Maine Democratic Nominating Convention on July 25, 2026, in Bangor. From now until election day, Maine holds a significant role in national politics. The outcome of its U.S. Senate race may determine if Democrats can take control of the Senate from Republicans.
When voters in Maine cast their ballots, they are aware of two key points. The current Senator, Susan Collins, has directed millions of dollars to the state. Reelecting her means maintaining Republican control of the Senate.
Old Politics vs. New Politics
The race between Collins and Jackson symbolizes more than just a competition between qualified candidates. It represents a shift from old to new political dynamics. The concept of old politics, popularized by Tip O’Neill’s phrase “all politics is local,” emphasized obtaining federal funds for local districts or states. With seniority, politicians gained influence through committee roles.
Senator Collins exemplifies these old politics. Elected to the Senate in 1996, she now chairs the Senate Appropriations Committee. This role has allowed her to channel significant funds to Maine, including $190 million for rural hospitals.
The Rise of National Politics
New politics highlights a national perspective. Political polarization has intensified, with states becoming reliably blue or red. In Maine, no Republican has won since George H. W. Bush in 1988. Recent elections saw Democratic victories, reflecting broader Northeast trends.
Figures like Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders have shaped these new politics, appealing to distinct voter bases. Trump’s followers are often older, rural, and less educated, while Sanders attracts young, urban, college-educated individuals discontented with economic inequalities.
Troy Jackson’s Political Journey
Jackson, originally a Republican, began his political career in Maine’s rural areas. In 2004, he switched to the Democratic Party, securing a state House seat. By 2008, he was elected to the state Senate, eventually becoming majority leader and president. Having supported Sanders’ earlier bid against Hillary Clinton, Jackson positions himself as a proponent of change.
After another candidate faltered, Jackson quickly secured the Democratic nomination. He criticizes Collins for supporting tax breaks for the wealthy and confirming Supreme Court justices who overturned Roe v. Wade.
Jackson aspires to disrupt the Senate’s status quo. He opposes Sen. Chuck Schumer’s leadership, advocates dismantling Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and proposes replacing the existing healthcare system with Medicare for All.
The Voter Dilemma
Maine’s voters now decide between old and new political strategies. Frank Bragg, a retired physician, reflects this crossroads. Once a Collins supporter, he now backs Jackson, viewing his vote as essential for national interests. Bragg, referencing former Senator Margaret Chase Smith, criticizes Collins for aligning with Trump instead of standing up for what he considers right.
The race may hinge on “double haters,” voters uncomfortable with both candidates. Trump has labeled Jackson as radical, while Jackson accuses Collins of serving wealthy interests. Collins relies on voters willing to split their tickets, though such voters are dwindling as local loyalty diminishes to national allegiance.
As these dynamics unfold, Maine’s election offers insight into the evolving landscape of American politics.
John Kenneth White, professor emeritus at The Catholic University of America, discusses these themes in his writings. His recent coauthored book explores the future of U.S. politics.