Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson reiterated Sunday that he has no plans to apologize to his opponent, Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME), for telling her to “shut up” during their final debate on Thursday. Jackson made the remarks during an interview with CNN’s State of the Union, addressing an exchange in which Collins suggested a protester interrupting the debate was one of his supporters.
Jackson’s response and rationale
During the debate, as Collins spoke, a protester opposing data centers began yelling. Moderators asked for the individual to be removed, but Collins stated the demonstrator was “obviously one of Troy’s supporters.” Jackson responded by saying, “Oh, shut up. I don’t even know that kid.” In a follow-up interview with CNN, Jackson confirmed he stood by the remark, stating, “I’m not going to be talked down to by Sen. Collins.” He added that he shook hands with Collins after each debate but emphasized his refusal to accept what he described as condescending treatment.
Protester’s denial of coordination
The protester, Henry Elgie, a 19-year-old Bowdoin College student, told The New York Times on Saturday that he had “zero coordination” with Jackson’s campaign. Elgie stated he did not know Jackson personally and had no prior involvement with the campaign. The Sunrise Movement, a left-wing advocacy group advocating for the Green New Deal, posted on Instagram that Elgie was one of its volunteers. The group did not claim any direct connection to Jackson’s campaign beyond the protester’s affiliation with their organization.
Campaign dynamics and election context
Jackson, a former president of the Maine Senate, is challenging Collins in a closely contested race ahead of the November 3 election. Collins, the longest-serving Republican woman in Senate history, is seeking a sixth term. Jackson framed the incident as part of a pattern where Collins allegedly spoke down to him during the debates. He reaffirmed his commitment to representing Mainers, stating his actions were driven by a refusal to accept what he perceived as disrespectful behavior.
Post-debate interactions
Jackson noted that he maintained a civil tone with Collins after the debates, including handshakes, despite the heated exchange. He did not address whether he believed Collins’ comment about the protester was intentional or an attempt to provoke a response. Collins has not publicly commented on Jackson’s remarks beyond the debate exchange itself.
Election implications
The race between Jackson and Collins remains competitive, with both candidates emphasizing different policy priorities. Jackson’s campaign has focused on economic and environmental issues, while Collins has highlighted her experience and bipartisan record. The protester’s interruption and Jackson’s response have drawn attention to the broader debate over data center development in Maine, a topic that has become a focal point in the campaign.