Republican groups are focusing on Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson following the resurfacing of a 1988 police report that includes allegations of assault against a man and pushing his partner during a confrontation in Fort Kent, Maine. Jackson, a former state Senate president, was selected by Maine Democrats to replace Graham Platner, who withdrew from the race amid allegations of his own. Jackson is running against Republican Senator Susan Collins in a competitive election that could impact the GOP's Senate majority.
A recent poll indicated Jackson has a slight lead over Collins, although it falls within the margin of error. The Republican National Committee criticized Jackson, comparing him to Platner and labeling him as 'violent and unhinged.' Jackson acknowledged the incident from 1988, stating he took responsibility for it and emphasized that he has never been violent with his partner. His partner, Lana Pelletier, also defended him, stating that she does not recall making statements attributed to her in the police report and described Jackson as a caring partner and father.
The Jackson campaign confirmed that he received a $50 fine for the incident, which involved a physical altercation after Jackson allegedly kicked in a door and assaulted another man. Jackson's past, including his previous Republican affiliation and various allegations regarding his conduct, has raised concerns among some Democrats about the vetting process for candidates. Jackson has positioned himself as a candidate focused on working-class issues, advocating for policies such as higher taxes on the wealthy and universal healthcare.