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Bellows Withdraws, Jackson Leads Maine Democratic Senate Race

7/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

Secretary of State Shenna Bellows withdrew from the Maine Democratic U.S. Senate primary on July 19, 2026, citing President Donald Trump’s attacks on democracy.
Her exit makes former Senate president Troy Jackson the frontrunner with at least 400 of 601 delegates backing him.
Former public-health official Nirav Shah also withdrew, further narrowing the race.
Secretary of State Shenna Bellows will remain to oversee tabulation and certification of Maine’s election results.

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Story summary

Secretary of State Shenna Bellows withdrew from the Maine Democratic U.S. Senate primary on July 19, 2026, citing President Donald Trump’s attacks on democracy.
Her exit makes former Senate president Troy Jackson the frontrunner with at least 400 of 601 delegates backing him.
Former public-health official Nirav Shah also withdrew, further narrowing the race.
Secretary of State Shenna Bellows will remain to oversee tabulation and certification of Maine’s election results.