Maine Senate Nominee Troy Jackson's Relationship with Second Cousin Revealed

A report published on July 31, 2026, indicates that Troy Jackson, the Democratic Senate nominee from Maine, has been in a long-term relationship with his high school sweetheart, Lana Pelletier, who is also his second cousin. Genealogical records show that they share the same great-grandparents, Thomas Pelletier and Edith Thibodeau. Jackson, 58, and Pelletier have two adult sons and have been together throughout Jackson's 26-year political career, although locals claim they have never formally married. The report notes that relationships between second cousins are legal in Maine and are not uncommon in the region. This revelation follows Jackson's nomination to replace Graham Platner, the original nominee who suspended his campaign due to allegations of sexual assault. Jackson accepted the nomination, expressing his commitment to the campaign. He will face Republican Senator Susan Collins in the upcoming general election.