Additional Coverage:
- How Troy Jackson went from Maine logger to Democratic nominee for Senate against Susan Collins (pbs.org)
Troy Jackson’s Journey from Logger to Maine’s U.S. Senate Contender
ALLAGASH, Maine – Nearly three decades ago, a young Troy Jackson stood shoulder to shoulder with fellow loggers deep in Maine’s northern woods, confronting State Police troopers who threatened arrest. The lumberjacks had blocked a key route to the Quebec border, protesting Canadian loggers willing to work for lower wages-a stand that ultimately failed to stop the tide.
That pivotal moment sparked a shift for Jackson, a fifth-generation logger, who realized that real change required action from within the system. “He realized the only way to change things was to be involved,” said Hilton Hafford, a logger who stood with him during that blockade.
Jackson’s decision to enter politics has since propelled him to become the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate in Maine, setting the stage for a high-stakes race against Republican incumbent Susan Collins. Their contest is among several key Senate races this November that may determine which party controls the chamber.
Jackson, 58, has long roots in Aroostook County-known simply as “The County” to Mainers-a vast and heavily forested area where he witnessed firsthand the struggles of working-class families. His campaign emphasizes his deep connection to the region and his fight against economic inequality and corporate influence. Interestingly, Aroostook has historically supported Republicans at the national level, including Donald Trump, even as it elected Jackson to the state legislature.
Facing a formidable opponent, Jackson stepped in late as the Democratic nominee after Graham Platner withdrew amid a sexual assault allegation, which he denied. Jackson has criticized Collins for prioritizing her own interests and particularly condemned her vote that helped facilitate the Supreme Court decision overturning the federal right to abortion. Collins, also from Aroostook County, has accused Jackson of holding views too liberal for Maine’s electorate.
At the Democratic convention last month, Jackson underscored his humble beginnings and logging background as the foundation of his commitment to championing working families. “What I am is a guy from northern Maine that’s a logger,” he told supporters.
From Rugged Woods to Legislative Halls
Aroostook County spans an area large enough to contain Rhode Island and Connecticut combined, yet its sparse population grapples with economic challenges. Jackson’s hometown of Allagash sits at the county’s northern edge, where paved roads give way to logging trails. Starting at 19, Jackson endured grueling 12-hour shifts that began in the pre-dawn hours, often without the safety net of health insurance.
“We all worked hard for our families and followed the rules, but the harder we worked, the more the companies took from us,” Jackson reflected during his nomination speech. Over time, the town’s population dwindled, schools closed, and opportunities vanished.
Disillusioned by failed protests like the logging blockade, Jackson shifted his focus to politics. Initially running unsuccessfully as a Republican in a predominantly Democratic region, he later won office as an independent before joining the Democratic Party in 2004. His political career grew, eventually leading to his tenure as president of the state Senate.
Jackson’s views evolved, especially on social issues. Early in his political life, he opposed abortion and same-sex marriage but has since changed his stance.
Louie Pelletier, brother of Jackson’s longtime partner, notes that logging culture tends to lean conservative. “That’s the mindset he was in,” Pelletier said, adding that Jackson’s transformation after entering office was clear: “Then he never looked back.”
A Divided Hometown Faces a Crucial Choice
In Allagash, a town of about 230 people, political loyalties remain split. The town’s lone restaurant and small museum-featuring a photo of Jackson shaking hands with President Joe Biden-offer glimpses of its character. Yet campaign signs favoring Republican candidates outnumber those supporting Jackson.
Darlene Dumond, a local who supports Jackson, expressed frustration with Collins’ long Senate tenure despite her efforts to bring resources to Maine. Dumond criticized Collins’ vote to confirm Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court-a decision that contributed to overturning Roe v.
Wade. “Why would our girl from Aroostook County be the deciding vote for that?”
she questioned.
Though Collins has voiced disagreement with the court’s abortion ruling, she stands by her Kavanaugh confirmation vote.
Jackson argues his ability to retain his legislative seat in a region trending Republican demonstrates his appeal. Still, his track record outside Allagash shows challenges: failed bids for Congress and governor, and a narrow loss in a recent local election.
Relations with other politicians have sometimes been rocky. Governor Janet Mills, who briefly sought the Senate nomination, has not endorsed Jackson.
Some colleagues have criticized Jackson for a temperamental streak, citing incidents such as throwing a water bottle during disagreements. His supporters counter that he is passionate and competitive, not temperamental.
When questioned about these episodes, Jackson acknowledged his emotions but emphasized accountability. “I wear my heart on my sleeve,” he said, noting he apologized when appropriate.
Hafford recalls those fiery moments with understanding. “Troy would look over at me during meetings and say, ‘Is it time yet?’” he laughed, referring to Jackson’s strong feelings during debates over improving working conditions.
As the Senate race intensifies, Maine voters will decide whether the logger turned legislator can unseat a seasoned incumbent and bring his brand of advocacy to the nation’s capital.