BANGOR, Maine (TNND) — Newly nominated Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Troy Jackson is facing scrutiny following reports that he and his longtime partner, with whom he shares two adult children, are second cousins.
The reports, first published by independent journalist Steve Robinson and later reported by Fox News, the New York Post, and other outlets, allege that Jackson and his partner, Lana Pelletier, share the same great-grandparents, making them second cousins.
Genealogical records cited in the reports indicate the couple has two adult sons together.
Jackson’s campaign reportedly dismissed the claim as a political distraction, telling Fox News that his opponent, longtime Republican Sen. Susan Collins, “will do anything to distract from the fact that she votes with Trump 96% of the time and has sold out working people in Maine.”
“Personal attacks on Troy’s family are shameful and desperate,” his campaign said in a statement, according to Fox News.
Jackson, a former Maine Senate president, was selected by Democratic delegates last week to replace Graham Platner as the party’s nominee after Platner withdrew from the race amid a sexual assault allegation.
In wake of the reports about Jackson and his partner, Republicans took to social media to express outrage and disgust.
“If you thought Platner was a freak — meet Troy Jackson,” former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer wrote on X.”Can’t wait for Democrats to defend cousin marriage!” Rep. Nancy Mace, a Republican who represents South Carolina, wrote.
The relationship does not violate Maine law. State law prohibits marriages between close relatives, such as siblings, parents, children, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. Marriages between second cousins are legal.
The New York Post reported that Jackson has previously referred to Pelletier as his wife, although campaign materials now identify her as his partner. The reports also said the couple has never legally married.
Jackson is set to face Collins in the general election in November.
