BANGOR, Maine — The fourth and final debate of the Maine Senate race featured tense exchanges as Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) and her Democratic challenger, Troy Jackson, faced off in front of a live audience. This debate differed from the previous three, which were held in television studios and were more subdued. During the debate, Jackson told Collins to "shut up" in response to her comment about a protester he claimed not to know. Collins struggled to provide an example of when her vote blocked a Republican priority, which was highlighted in the debate.
The most contentious moment occurred when a protester interrupted the debate, expressing concern about data centers impacting the climate. Collins suggested the protester was a supporter of Jackson, to which Jackson replied, "Oh, shut up," denying any connection to the protester. The protester was removed while continuing to shout about Collins accepting corporate PAC money.
Collins was also asked to name a time when she voted against a GOP policy. She mentioned her opposition to Pete Hegseth's nomination as war secretary, stating she organized votes against him, but ultimately, her efforts were unsuccessful due to a last-minute change by another Republican senator. Democrats criticized this example as it did not demonstrate her ability to block Republican initiatives effectively. Collins defended her voting record, claiming she has voted against her party more often than any other senator.
When questioned about her support for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as health and human services secretary, Collins stated she disagrees with him on some issues, particularly his vaccine skepticism, but supports his focus on chronic disease and nutrition. She maintained that she does not regret her vote for Kennedy, citing his assistance with a heating program in Maine.
The moderators asked questions on various topics, including immigration and housing costs. Collins pressed Jackson on his financial disclosure reports, suggesting a lack of transparency, to which Jackson acknowledged billionaire support for his campaign and stated his intention to tax the wealthy if elected. Jackson accused Collins of condescension, questioning whether she looked down on him or working-class individuals. Collins denied this, asserting her work ethic from a young age.
The audience remained mostly quiet throughout the debate, with only a few interruptions. Outside the venue, supporters of both candidates gathered, displaying signs and banners, including one that referenced Jackson's previous comments on tariffs.