At their first debate ahead of November’s U.S. Senate election, Republican Sen. Susan Collins defended her record and cited breaks with President Donald Trump. Democrat Troy Jackson argued she has not done enough to challenge the administration.
Republican U.S. Sen. Susan Collins and Democratic challenger Troy Jackson met for their first debate in the campaign for Maine’s Senate seat. Collins pointed to three decades in Congress, her seniority and her ability as chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee to secure federal funding for the state. She is seeking a sixth term.
Jackson, a former president of Maine’s state Senate, argued that Collins had too often supported President Donald Trump and failed to use her influence to resist his policies. Collins highlighted disagreements with Trump over tariffs on Canada, the U.S. approach to Iran and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
The candidates also revisited the Supreme Court and abortion. Jackson criticized Collins for voting to confirm Trump nominee Brett Kavanaugh, saying the decision helped pave the way for the court to overturn Roe v. Wade. Collins said she opposed that ruling but evaluates Supreme Court nominees on their qualifications. She also noted Jackson’s past opposition to abortion rights.
They sparred over the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which cut Medicaid and food assistance spending and extended tax cuts from Trump’s first term. Collins opposed the final bill but supported an earlier procedural vote that allowed it to reach the Senate floor. She said that step helped her secure a $50 billion fund for rural hospitals. Jackson accused her of helping create a problem and then seeking credit for a limited remedy.
Both criticized Trump’s tariffs on Canada. Collins said she opposed the trade war and had worked behind the scenes to seek exemptions for goods important to Maine, including road salt. Jackson called that approach inadequate. On Iran, Collins said Trump’s strategy was poorly considered and had affected global energy markets; Jackson faulted her votes against earlier Iran measures.
The candidates also criticized U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement after an ICE officer fatally shot a man during a traffic stop in Maine over the summer. Collins called the incident horrific and said the agency needed serious reform while remaining in place. Jackson called for ICE to be disbanded.
Jackson became the Democratic nominee after primary winner Graham Platner withdrew amid sexual misconduct allegations, which Platner denied. Collins attacked Jackson’s record in Augusta, while Jackson said she misrepresented the legislative process. The race is among the most closely watched contests of November and could affect control of the Senate.