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AZProgressive

(30,138 posts)
Wed Jul 8, 2026, 07:25 PM Jul 8

First Challenger Files Paperwork to Potentially Replace Platner

Former Maine state Senate President Troy Jackson is the first Democrat to officially explore a run to replace Graham Platner, the embattled Democratic nominee for Maine’s U.S. Senate seat.

Jackson filed Federal Election Commission paperwork on Tuesday to form an exploratory committee for the race.

“This is something I never considered, but if Graham’s stepping away, I am very, very interested and think I’m the best person to replace him,” Jackson told the Bangor Daily News, which first reported his decision to launch an exploratory committee, on Monday night.

(snip)

Jackson, who endorsed Platner in February but called for him to drop out Monday, filed to form an exploratory committee — what the FEC refers to as “testing the waters” ahead of a possible campaign. He can “explore the feasibility of becoming a candidate” through certain activities such as conducting polling, traveling and making telephone calls, according to FEC guidelines. Jackson will have to officially register with the FEC once his committee raises or spends $5,000.

https://www.notus.org/campaigns/graham-platner-maine-senate-troy-jackson

I don't know if he is the best to replace Platner but I saw this on my social media feed including a Bluesky post from Troy Jackson where he shows polling of him defeating Susan Collins.

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First Challenger Files Paperwork to Potentially Replace Platner (Original Post) AZProgressive Jul 8 OP
Thanks for posting this! calimary Jul 8 #1
I don't know if he's the best RandySF Jul 8 #2
I agree AZProgressive Jul 8 #3
Here's a comprehensive list. lapucelle Jul 8 #4

AZProgressive

(30,138 posts)
3. I agree
Wed Jul 8, 2026, 07:43 PM
Jul 8

I wasn't sure of who else might enter as to why I said that but he is qualified and better than Platner.

lapucelle

(21,420 posts)
4. Here's a comprehensive list.
Wed Jul 8, 2026, 07:58 PM
Jul 8
Who could replace Graham Platner in Maine’s Senate race? Here are the names being floated.

Platner hasn’t dropped out, but candidates are already lined up if he does.

no paywall
https://archive.md/NYa5W#selection-1679.4-1683.81
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