Former Obama strategist Dan Pfeiffer advised Maine Democrats to set aside internal divisions and focus on defeating incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins. Speaking on the "Pod Save America" podcast, Pfeiffer urged the party to "get over your s---" and win the race, a message aligned with a recent endorsement video released by former President Barack Obama.
The U.S. Senate race in Maine has attracted national attention following the replacement of initial Democratic candidate Graham Platner due to sexual assault allegations. Platner was succeeded by Troy Jackson, who has faced his own controversies. Pfeiffer acknowledged that a significant number of people in Maine, including some Democrats, do not appear to like Jackson. He suggested this dissatisfaction may stem from opposition to Platner's removal, the process that led to Jackson's selection, or the ongoing feud between Jackson and former candidate Angela Mills.
Pfeiffer noted that as of two weeks prior to the discussion, Mills had not endorsed Jackson, and Jackson had not requested the endorsement. He interpreted Obama's blunt message as an attempt to prevent voters who were unenthusiastic about Jackson due to the chaotic primary process from sitting out the election. Pfeiffer stated that while he was unsure if voter apathy was a real concern, it was a logical reason for Obama to include that specific line in the endorsement video.
Former Obama speechwriter Jon Favreau, a co-host on the show, expressed concern that internal feuds could hinder the campaign. He pointed to Michigan as an example of Democrats overcoming a divisive primary, noting that former Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has appeared alongside Abdul El-Sayed this week. Favreau highlighted statements by Haley Stevens and argued that Troy Jackson would benefit from greater support from both Maine and national Democrats. He cited a New York Times poll showing Collins ahead, but noted that most polled voters expressed a desire for a Democratic Senate.
Favreau argued that Maine Democrats need to be reminded that Jackson is their candidate and their path to securing a Democratic seat in the Senate rather than leaving it to Republicans.
Julian Epstein, a Democratic strategist, told Fox News Digital that some candidates have faced scrutiny for issues ranging from tattoos to refusing to denounce terrorists. He criticized the political and consultant class for rationalizing these issues in pursuit of power rather than principle, claiming that if revolutionary candidates do not win, it means less power and money for the left.
Jesse Arm, vice president of external affairs at the Manhattan Institute, told Fox News Digital that the Obama administration alumni were struggling to cope with the situation. Arm argued that Susan Collins is overperforming because Maine voters view her as a sensible moderate who calls balls and strikes. He described Collins as an independent maverick throughout her career, a quality he said Maine voters appreciate.