#9 Maine’s Fierce Advocate: Senate President Troy Jackson

Join us for an insightful conversation with Maine Senate President Troy Jackson as he reflects on over two decades of service in the Maine legislature. Known for his unwavering dedication to working-class and poor communities, Jackson discusses the aerial spraying of herbicides in Maine, the successes he’s most proud of, and his growing “rift” with Governor Janet Mills. In this episode, Jackson candidly shares his thoughts on the political climate in Maine. I ask him directly about the alleged lack of civility in the legislature this past session and about his experiences working with former Governor Paul LePage, who once called Jackson “brain dead” and accused him of “giving it to the people without Vaseline.” Jackson highlights key legislative achievements, such as the Family Medical Leave Act and universal school meals, and discusses the challenges of addressing significant issues like prescription drug prices and food insecurity. As he prepares to leave the legislature, Jackson talks about his future plans and the possibility of running for governor. This conversation provides a unique glimpse into the values and motivations of one of Maine's most passionate political figures.    For more information on the dangers of aerial spraying and the way it’s impacting a community very close to Maine, please check out this recent New York Times article: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/14/magazine/canada-brain-disease-dementia.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare