Get To Know The Democratic Party’s Midterm Ticket

If Democrats were hoping for a quiet, disciplined run into the 2026 midterms, somebody apparently forgot to tell several of their candidates.

Across the country, a string of Democratic hopefuls is facing controversies involving personal conduct, strange associations, old comments, and allegations that would make most campaign managers reach for the aspirin.

Let’s start in Maine.

Democrats initially rallied around Graham Platner for Senate, despite reports about vulgar past comments, a controversial tattoo with an alleged Nazi association, and an allegation of sexual assault. Platner has faced scrutiny over those matters, and Democrats eventually moved on from his candidacy.

Enter Troy Jackson.

Jackson has faced reports about alleged anger problems and has also drawn attention over a long-term relationship with a second cousin. Reports have said the two have children together.

Yes, you read that correctly.

Meanwhile, Republican Sen. Susan Collins is running on experience and a long record representing Maine. Even some political opponents have publicly acknowledged her work for the state.

Then there is Texas, where Democrat James Talarico has become a magnet for criticism.

Talarico has been attacked over social media posts and educational material involving minors. Critics have alleged that he encouraged middle school students to read sexually explicit material and contact him after dark to discuss it. He has also faced criticism for campaigning alongside a surgeon who allegedly performed gender-related procedures on minors.

Republican Ken Paxton, meanwhile, is running as a Trump-aligned conservative with years of experience as Texas attorney general.

Texas Democrat Bobby Pulido has also faced controversy. Republican groups have accused Pulido of allegedly downplaying child molestation and of knowingly bringing a convicted sex offender onto school property. Those claims have become campaign ammunition for Republicans supporting Rep. Monica De La Cruz.