NRT briefing
Maine Senate debate gets testy as Troy Jackson tells Collins to ‘shut up’: Top takeaways
Based on reporting by Washington Examiner.
The Brief
The fourth and final debate in the Maine Senate race turned testy when Democratic challenger Troy Jackson told Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) to "shut up" after she quipped that a protester who interrupted the event was one of his supporters. Jackson denied knowing the younger man, who wore a press badge and shouted about corporate PAC money as he was escorted out.
When asked to name a time her vote blocked a GOP priority, Collins cited her opposition to Pete Hegseth's confirmation as war secretary, but acknowledged that a Republican changed his mind at the last minute and the nominee was confirmed.
She also cited a Bangor Daily News analysis finding her vote decisive in 56 instances benefiting Democrats. Jackson has argued Collins only breaks with her party when it doesn't affect the outcome.
Collins defended her votes to confirm Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Russ Vought, saying she doesn't regret them and noting she has clashed with Vought over spending. The candidates also traded questions, with Collins pressing Jackson on delayed financial disclosures and Jackson accusing her of condescension toward working-class people. Jackson acknowledged that billionaires have donated to his campaign, saying he would tax them if elected.