Democrat Troy Jackson unseats Republican Susan Collins in Maine Senate upset

Democratic nominee Troy Jackson defeated five-term Republican incumbent Susan Collins in Maine's US Senate race, handing Democrats a major victory in the midterm elections. Jackson, 58, unseated Collins after a harsh campaign centered on living costs and political loyalties. NBC News projects the win contributes to a strong night for Democrats, who will take full control of Congress in January. A former state senate president and lumberjack by trade, Jackson criticized Collins for supporting Donald Trump's agenda, pointing to her vote for Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh. Collins defended her record by highlighting federal funds she secured as head of the Senate appropriations committee, while arguing Jackson lacked federal experience. Maine voters faced severe economic pressures from soaring fuel costs tied to the Iran conflict and heavy heating oil prices. Jackson had only 101 days to run his campaign after stepping in when the original Democratic nominee, Graham Platner, dropped out over scandals. During his early Wednesday victory speech, Jackson promised to fight to abolish ICE, criticizing federal agents for terrorizing communities. President Trump later acknowledged in an interview that the Iran war's short-term consequences, such as higher gasoline prices, impacted election outcomes.

Context

Senate races in traditionally competitive or rural states often focus heavily on local economic conditions and national political trends. High energy prices and federal policies frequently influence voter choices during midterm elections. Incumbents with long tenures face added scrutiny when economic hardships affect everyday households.