What happened
Maine Democratic Senate nominee Troy Jackson has intensified his criticism of Israel, describing its actions in Gaza as genocide and dismissing objections from Jewish residents in the state. Jackson made these comments at a town hall meeting and in an interview with a local news affiliate.
Jackson stated that he would not support further military aid to Israel and referred to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a war criminal. He also drew moral equivalence between the actions of Hamas and the Israeli government, suggesting that both sides are responsible for senseless murders.
Jackson's stance on Israel is in contrast to that of his opponent, Republican Sen. Susan Collins, who has consistently supported the U.S.-Israel relationship. The Senate race in Maine is closely contested, with Jackson slightly ahead in some polls and Collins leading in others.
The outcome of this race could have significant implications for control of the U.S. Senate. Jackson's comments on Israel have sparked controversy, with some critics accusing him of promoting anti-Israel sentiment.
