Maine Senate Debate: Jackson, Bellows, Shah’s Chances of Replacing Platner
Summary
Maine Democrats will hold a debate to choose a new nominee for the U.S. Senate race after their original candidate, Graham Platner, withdrew due to sexual assault allegations. Several candidates, including Troy Jackson, Shenna Bellows, and Nirav Shah, are competing to replace Platner and face Republican Senator Susan Collins in the 2026 election.Key Facts
- Graham Platner, the original Democratic nominee for Maine Senate, withdrew in July after sexual assault allegations.
- State law lets the Democratic Party select a new nominee through a nominating convention.
- A debate is scheduled for July 21, 2026, with nine Democratic candidates invited.
- Prominent candidates in the race are former Senate President Troy Jackson, Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, and Nirav Shah, former state CDC director.
- The debate will be broadcast by News Center Maine and split into two parts with different candidates.
- A recent poll shows Jackson leading with 40% support, Shah with 23%, and Bellows with 14%.
- The nominee will compete against Republican Senator Susan Collins in the 2026 midterm elections.
- The new nominee will need to energize voters who were motivated by Platner but may now feel disappointed.
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