Troy Jackson, a Progressive brawler, landed in the race unexpectedly. Democrats are hoping he can unseat Susan Collins, a Republican, in their bid to retake the Senate. Jackson campaigns across Maine in his 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan, telling his life story at every stop.

At 19, he followed his father into Maine’s North Woods to become a logger. At 30, he helped lead a logging blockade at the border to protest powerful landowners hiring cheaper Canadian labor. Four years later, he was elected to the Maine Legislature, where he pushed a populist agenda for nearly two decades, including six years as Senate president.

Jackson replaced Graham Platner on the ticket in July, after Platner’s campaign imploded amid a rape allegation he denied. Democrats had emphasized blue-collar credentials to attract a constituency that has flocked to the GOP. Jackson, whose working-class roots run deeper, now challenges a five-term Republican incumbent.

Jackson, 58, contrasts with Collins, 73, a genteel centrist. He has clashed with Governor Janet Mills and did not receive her endorsement. Critics say his blunt style can alienate voters, while supporters praise his authenticity. His campaign tests whether Mainers will retire Collins or back a scrappy progressive eager to challenge the Trump administration.