Democrats in Maine are gearing up for a pivotal debate this Thursday, as they vie to replace Graham Platner, the former Senate nominee who stepped down following a recent scandal. Set for 7 p.m. EDT in Portland, the debate will feature prominent figures including former gubernatorial candidates Troy Jackson, Shenna Bellows, and Nirav Shah, along with Jordan Wood, who previously contested in the 2nd District.

News Center Maine, the host of the debate, has confirmed the participation of these candidates, each of whom secured at least 20 percent in their June primaries. The debate follows closely on the heels of Platner’s withdrawal last week, which was spurred by new sexual assault allegations reported by POLITICO.

This Thursday's event marks the first public forum for the candidates as they compete for Platner’s former supporters in preparation for the July 25 nominating convention. Over 600 delegates at the convention will decide on Platner’s successor, in a race deemed critical for the Democrats’ hopes of gaining control of the Senate this November.

Meanwhile, controversy surrounds the debate as Dan Kleban, another Senate hopeful, was not invited due to not meeting the required vote threshold. Kleban's campaign has protested his exclusion, arguing for a more inclusive approach to the debate criteria. Similarly, Troy Jackson has called on News Center Maine to consider other potential nominees listed in the Maine Democratic Party’s current voter guide.

The debate promises to be a significant event, with statewide coverage on WCSH 6 and WLBZ 2, offering Maine voters a closer look at who might be their next representative in the Senate. With the stakes high, the candidates are poised to present their visions for Maine’s future, aiming to sway delegates and voters alike in this unexpected and high-stakes nomination process.