Race to Replace Democratic Senate Nominee in Maine

PORTLAND, Maine – The urgency grows as Democrats race to find a new nominee to face Republican Sen. Susan Collins in Maine. Candidates have until Wednesday to register for the Democratic nomination, a decision that will be made by 601 voting delegates during the Maine Democratic Party’s convention on July 25.

Graham Platner, previously backed by Sen. Bernie Sanders, had clinched the Democratic primary in June. His campaign was gaining traction but ended amid allegations of rape from a former partner. Calls for his immediate resignation came from top Democrats in Maine and nationwide. A new nominee must be selected by July 27, pushing the Democratic Party to act swiftly.

All 16 counties in Maine will hold special meetings this weekend for delegate elections. These delegates will then vote on Saturday, July 25, in Bangor, Maine, to choose the party’s nominee.

The organization built by Graham Platner’s campaign does not automatically support the party’s chosen nominee unless they adopt core progressive commitments.

Candidates for the Democratic Nomination

Nirav Shah: Shah ranked highest in the recent Democratic gubernatorial primary, albeit losing the nomination to Hannah Pingree. Formerly head of the Maine CDC and principal deputy director of the federal CDC under President Trump, Shah offers strong progressive policies. He publicly invited Platner’s supporters, ensuring their involvement and voice in his campaign.

Troy Jackson: Jackson, a fifth-generation logger and former Maine Senate President, supported Platner during the primary. Both were endorsed by Sanders. Jackson’s platform centers on healthcare, economic reforms, and social justice.

Shenna Bellows: Bellows, Maine’s Secretary of State, aims to challenge Collins again after losing to her in 2014. Her campaign emphasizes healthcare, workers’ rights, and local protections.

Jordan Wood: Former staffer for Katie Porter, Wood shifted focus from a congressional bid to the Senate race. His campaign highlights grassroots support, rejecting corporate and lobbyist funding.

David Costello: Former Maryland official, Costello finished third in the June primary. He previously ran unsuccessfully for the Senate in 2024.

Dan Kleban: Kleban, co-founder of the Maine Beer Company, withdrew from the Senate race but endorses transparency and unity within the party.

Paige Loud: A social worker, Loud emphasizes the growing power of grassroots movements in Maine and aims to maintain their momentum in her Senate bid.

Elizabeth Dickerson: Former state representative and teacher, Dickerson stresses wealth disparity and the need for responsible leadership.