Collins and Jackson clash in Maine Senate debate finale

Summarised from 2 outlets · 3 reports · Updated 16 Oct, 02:51 · Archive

A protester interrupted the final debate between Republican incumbent Susan Collins and Democratic challenger Troy Jackson in Maine.

A protester interrupted the final debate between Republican Senator Susan Collins and Democratic challenger Troy Jackson in Maine on Thursday evening, sparking a testy exchange between the candidates. About 15 minutes into the debate, the demonstrator yelled: 'AI data centres are destroying our climate. They are poisoning our water.' As security escorted the protester out, Collins remarked: 'So this is obviously one of Troy's supporters.' Jackson quickly responded: 'Oh, shut up. I did not. I didn't, I don't even know that kid.' Collins replied sarcastically: 'Oh, right.'

The interruption came as the candidates were discussing other issues. Data centres have emerged as a key concern for Maine voters ahead of the midterm elections. During an earlier debate on Tuesday, Jackson expressed opposition to data centres, saying he understood 'it may be something that we have to deal with', but voiced concern they could raise electricity prices and harm the state's water supply. He also accused Collins of being susceptible to donor influence on the issue, a charge Collins denied.

Polling released on the eve of the debate showed an extremely tight race. A Suffolk University poll conducted 8–11 October showed Jackson leading Collins 49%-47% among likely voters, a margin within the survey's error. Major nonpartisan handicappers including the Cook Political Report and Sabato's Crystal Ball rate the Maine Senate race as a toss-up. The seat is considered a top opportunity for Democrats to flip as they seek to win back Senate control from Republicans in the midterm elections.

How it is being reported

• Anti-data center protester crashes Maine Senate debate between Susan Collins and Troy JacksonAs the demonstrator was being dealt with by security, Collins quipped: "So this is obviously one of Troy's supporters."New York Post · 16 Oct, 02:38
• 'Oh, shut up!': Democrat snaps at Collins after heckler drives Maine Senate debate off the railsA protester yelling about AI data centers sparked a fiery clash between Republican Sen. Susan Collins and Democratic challenger Troy Jackson.Fox News · 16 Oct, 02:13
• Collins insists socialist rival won't beat her as Maine's money machine: 'You'll lose big time'A Suffolk University poll shows Troy Jackson edging Susan Collins 49%-47% ahead of their final Maine Senate debate in a statistical dead heat.Fox News · 15 Oct, 14:48

In this story: Susan Collins · Troy Jackson · Maine · Fox News · Suffolk University

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