Obama Endorses Troy Jackson in Maine Senate Race

Former President Barack Obama endorsed Troy Jackson for the U.S. Senate in a campaign video released Thursday, October 8, urging Maine voters to support the Democratic nominee against Republican Sen. Susan Collins. The endorsement came hours before the candidates’ second debate and shortly before the election campaign’s final stretch. In the video, Obama praised Jackson’s work as president of the Maine Senate, citing efforts to raise wages, lower prescription drug costs and provide free school meals. He also said Jackson helped protect abortion rights in Maine after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, and urged voters not to sit out the election. Jackson said in a written statement that he was honored to have Obama’s support. He said working people were frustrated with a government that serves the wealthy and well-connected, and argued they were ready for change. The campaign video’s release is established, but the available reporting does not measure whether the endorsement changed voter support or turnout. Polling cited in the race coverage shows a close contest.