Troy Jackson Files for U.S. Senate Exploratory Committee

Former Maine Senate President Troy Jackson filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission on July 7, 2026, to form a U.S. Senate exploratory committee. This makes him the first Democrat to officially campaign for the seat that Graham Platner is expected to vacate. Jackson's filing follows a growing 'Draft Troy' movement among his supporters and comes amid allegations against Platner that have led to diminished support from Democrats. Jackson expressed interest in the Senate seat in a statement to the Bangor Daily News. The exploratory committee is registered as a 'testing the waters' committee, allowing Jackson to raise funds without formally declaring his candidacy. Peter Sarasohn of Victory First Consulting is listed as the committee's treasurer. Jackson previously lost the Democratic primary for governor to Hannah Pingree. Other potential candidates to replace Platner include Secretary of State Shenna Bellows and former public health chief Nirav Shah, both of whom have not yet taken similar steps as Jackson. The Maine Democratic Party is preparing a process to replace Platner, who has until Monday to decide on his candidacy.