Collins, Jackson Clash in Final Maine Senate Debate

Maine’s fourth and final Senate debate between Republican incumbent Susan Collins and Democratic challenger Troy Jackson grew contentious when Jackson told Collins to “shut up” after she linked him to an audience heckler. The candidates also clashed over democracy: Jackson warned that President Donald Trump threatened democratic institutions and sought to retain power, while Collins said democracy would endure and called for Congress to reassert its authority. The race remains highly competitive in a state that leans Democratic and could help determine control of the Senate; a Suffolk University poll showed Jackson leading Collins 49% to 47%, within the 4.4-point margin of error. Collins has emphasized her independence, seniority and record securing federal funding for Maine, and has retained support among independents and some voters who disapprove of Trump. Jackson entered the race after Graham Platner withdrew and has faced a substantial television-advertising disadvantage.