POLITICS

Sanders Endorses Platner, Jackson at Maine Memorial Rallies

PUBLISHED May 25, 2026, 11:14 PM ET

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Portland. U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders rallied at Thompson's Point on Memorial Day Monday, endorsing Graham Platner for U.S. Senate and Troy Jackson for governor after a prior stop in Orono; organizers reported attendance from roughly 1,700 to several thousand as Platner positions to face five-term Republican Sen. Susan Collins in the general election. Sanders’ endorsements follow Gov. Janet Mills’ April announcement ending her campaign and come ahead of June primary contests; candidates at the events focused on affordability, healthcare and Social Security, and campaign officials said the appearances aim to boost turnout while Democrats seek to retain the Blaine House and contest Collins’ Senate seat next month.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

April 2026: Gov. Janet Mills announces she is ending her campaign.
Sunday (Memorial Day weekend): Sanders holds a stop in Orono.
Monday (Memorial Day): Sanders rallies at Thompson's Point in Portland.
Sanders publicly endorses Graham Platner for Senate and Troy Jackson for governor.
June 2026: Scheduled primaries where endorsements and turnout may influence outcomes.

News Intelligence

Sanders' endorsements could sway the June primaries. The focus is on affordability, healthcare, and Social Security. If you're a Maine resident, your vote could influence these outcomes. Stay informed, and remember to vote.

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Who Benefited

Endorsed Democratic candidates Graham Platner and Troy Jackson gained visibility, volunteer energy, and potential fundraising momentum from Sanders’ Memorial Day appearances, increasing their organizational capacity ahead of the June primary and the general election.

Who Impacted

Incumbent Senator Susan Collins and her campaign face heightened attention and sustained opposition messaging in a competitive race as Sanders’ appearances consolidate progressive support for Platner ahead of the June primary and beyond.

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