Troy Jackson has earned our trust | Opinion
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Carolyn Russo is a retired teacher and attorney who worked for the Maine Legislature for over a decade. She is a lifelong Mainer who grew up in Portland and now lives in Hope.
Troy Jackson is the real deal. He has earned our trust and respect, and he will make an amazing U.S. senator — one who represents the best interests of all Mainers. I know this because I worked alongside him for many years. I know his priorities, values and his commitment to personal growth.
Here are the facts.
As Senate chair of the Labor Committee in the 124th Legislature, Troy worked tirelessly for Maine workers. As the committee’s legislative analyst, I observed him prioritize the needs of everyday people. He listened carefully to each and every person who testified for each bill in front of the committee regardless of their point of view. He worked diligently with his fellow committee members to craft meaningful legislation that would affect Mainers in a positive way.
He championed a livable wage, fair workers’ compensation, security for Maine retirees, benefits for firefighters and their families and supported both public and private service employees. It didn’t matter how long a public hearing or work session would last, he would not stop until the legislation met the needs of those he served.
From 2019 – 2024, I was fortunate enough to work in Jackson’s Senate president office as a policy and legal director. This gave me a bird’s-eye view of the principles that directed his efforts. He never let a call from a constituent who had a concern or need pass by his desk unanswered, irrespective of whether or not they had voted for him.
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He continued his fight for Maine workers by sponsoring the Buy American, Build Maine bill, supported paid family and medical leave, promoted offshore wind projects that protected the environment and honored the men and women involved. All the while, he maintained the same priorities he supported as chair of the Labor Committee. His door was always open because he knew he could gain from others’ perspectives.
As Troy’s sphere of influence increased, so did his depth of understanding and his compassion. He led the fight for Maine’s indigenous people through all three of his sessions as Senate president. He pioneered universal free lunches for all school-aged children, supported early childhood and pre-K programs and increased protections for victims of sexual misconduct on college campuses.
He fought for increased access to justice in rural Maine through legal education and an Aroostook County Drug Court. He fought to bring down the costs of prescribed medicine and health insurance. His views matured and expanded with regard to women’s reproductive rights, reasonable gun safety laws and gender issues.
I witnessed this authentic growth as he listened, discussed and learned from a broader electorate. He maintains an open mind and doesn’t let his ego get in the way of good decision-making.
Rest assured that Troy Jackson cares deeply about this state and its inhabitants. He is trustworthy, prepared to fight for what is just and willing to evolve as a person and leader. He is in this race because he cares and promises to do his very best for each and every Mainer. I’ve seen this in action. Please join me in supporting my friend Troy Jackson for Senate.
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Tagged: columns, election 2026, senate 2026
