Maine Senate candidate Troy Jackson draws backlash over viral campaign ad

Maine Democratic Senate candidate Troy Jackson is facing criticism from both parties after a campaign ad went viral and was widely described as awkward and out of touch. The ad shows Jackson drinking boba tea while mocking Republican spending and references to wealthy interests, prompting ridicule online. Jackson, a former Maine Senate president and longtime logger who has emphasized his workingclass background, used the ad to attack his opponent, Republican Sen. Susan Collins. But several Democrats and Republicans said the message and presentation undercut his campaign rather than helping it. The reaction comes as the Maine Senate race remains close. A recent New York Times/Siena poll found Collins leading Jackson 49% to 46%, with 5% undecided. The race is being closely watched because control of the U.S. Senate could be decided by the outcome in Maine.