In a bold move that solidifies his intentions and sets the stage for a heated political race, Troy Jackson, the progressive powerhouse and former gubernatorial candidate, officially declared his candidacy for the U.S. Senate on Wednesday evening. The announcement came amidst a turbulent week for his former ally, Graham Platner, positioning Jackson as a determined advocate for change.

“I’ve been fighting for that movement my whole life — and I’m sure as hell not backing down now, when this fight is needed most,” Jackson proclaimed on the social media platform X. His statement underscores his lifelong commitment to progressive causes which he now intends to bring to the Senate.

A logger from the northernmost reaches of the state, Jackson's roots in organized labor have earned him a significant following and respect among his constituents. His previous bid for governor was bolstered by an endorsement from Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), highlighting his substantial progressive credentials.

Although Jackson’s formal declaration was largely anticipated — he had previously filed exploratory paperwork with the Federal Election Commission and begun campaigning — it marks a critical juncture in his political career. As the former president of the state Senate, Jackson has already secured several key endorsements, signaling strong initial support for his Senate campaign.

This early momentum is reflected in a flash poll conducted by Platner’s campaign and reported by POLITICO, which shows Jackson with a narrow lead over incumbent Sen. Susan Collins. However, the reliability of this one-day poll remains questionable.

In a dramatic shift earlier this week, Jackson publicly condemned Platner and urged him to withdraw from the political scene. This move was followed by Jackson’s decision to delete past social media posts featuring Platner, as reported by POLITICO, indicating his intent to clearly distance himself from the controversial figure and focus on his own campaign narrative.

As the race heats up, Jackson’s campaign is likely to spotlight his deep ties to labor and his progressive vision, aiming to resonate with voters who are eager for meaningful change at a crucial time in politics. With his official entry into the Senate race, Troy Jackson is not just running for office; he is striving to lead a movement.