Troy Jackson poised to take Maine Democrats’ Senate slot

Former Maine state senator Troy Jackson is expected to become the Democratic nominee for a Senate race in Maine, CBS News reported.

Jackson, described by CBS News correspondent Fin Gómez as a former state senator, has called himself a “pickup progressive.” The report said he is set to step in for Graham Platner, who left the contest after accusations of sexual assault.

The change would put Jackson in the nominee’s position after Platner’s departure from the race. CBS News did not provide additional details in its report about the allegations against Platner, the timing of his exit, or any formal party process connected to Jackson’s expected nomination.

No response from Platner to the accusations was included in the CBS News report.

Jackson’s expected rise gives Maine Democrats a new standard-bearer after a turbulent turn in the race. The report did not identify any other candidates or provide further details about the next steps for the campaign.

This story draws on original reporting from CBS News.