Maine Democratic Senate nominee-in-waiting Troy Jackson raises eyebrows in the Jewish community

Maine Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson has adopted a strong stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict, labeling Israel's actions in Gaza as "genocide." Jackson, a former logger and state Senate president, has built his political career on labor and economic issues. However, as he seeks a U.S. Senate seat, he is increasingly vocal about Israel, calling for an end to U.S. military aid.

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This is unconscionable. Anybody with eyes and a heart knows the Israeli government is committing genocide in Gaza. It has to end, and we as Americans have the power to end it.

"This is unconscionable. Anybody with eyes and a heart knows the Israeli government is committing genocide in Gaza. It has to end, and we as Americans have the power to end it," Jackson wrote on X/Twitter on July 9. He further stated that if elected, he would "never vote in favor of US taxpayer-funded military aid to Israel."

Jackson has also criticized AIPAC, the pro-Israel lobby, vowing to reject donations from corporate PACs, AIPAC, and lobbyists. His comments have generated unease within Maine's Jewish community. Some express concern that his use of the term "genocide" reflects a broader, alienating trend in Democratic primaries. Others, however, view Jackson as a pragmatic choice for the state, preferring him over his Republican opponent.

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When I’m in the US Senate, I’ll never vote in favor of US taxpayer-funded military aid to Israel.

Jackson is expected to secure the Democratic nomination to challenge Republican Sen. Susan Collins. His outspokenness on Israel has intensified following the withdrawal of another candidate, Graham Platner, from the race. Some Democrats who entered the race after Platner also began using the term "genocide" in their statements. Jackson's campaign did not respond to requests for comment on his views regarding Israel.

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I pledge to lead for Maine voters by rejecting attempts to buy influence through unlimited personal wealth and dark money. That means rejecting all money from corporate PACs, AIPAC, and lobbyists from Big Oil and Big Pharma.