SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine— Today, the Maine Education Association (MEA), the state’s largest union, announced its endorsement of former Senate President Troy Jackson for the United States Senate.
Jackson earned the endorsement following more than 20 years of service in the Maine Legislature, including 12 years in legislative leadership. Throughout his career, he has been a strong advocate for Maine’s public schools, students, educators, and working families.
“MEA is proud to endorse Troy Jackson because of his proven track record of standing strong for public education and working-class Mainers,” said MEA President Jesse Hargrove. “Troy has proven himself to be a relentless champion for working families, public schools, and educators by securing crucial funding, raising wages for school employees, and fighting to protect our pension system.”
During his time in the Legislature, Jackson helped increase state funding for public education to 55 percent, secured increased funding and higher wages for teachers and education support professionals, worked to protect the Maine public employee pension system, and supported collective bargaining rights for public sector workers.
“My mom was a public school teacher, so I grew up seeing how much educators give to their students and their communities. They deserve fair pay, strong benefits, the freedom to organize, and leaders who will listen to them and stand up for public schools,” said Jackson. “I’m grateful to have the support of MEA and its members, and I’ll bring the same commitment to educators and working people to the U.S. Senate.”
The endorsement followed a member-driven process that included representatives from local associations and every education job category across Maine. MEA members cited Jackson’s longstanding support for public education, educators, and working families, as well as his commitment to policies that strengthen communities and expand opportunities for students.
“MEA members know they can count on Troy to listen when decisions affecting our students and schools are being made in Washington, D.C. His commitment to public education makes him the leader our educators, students, and communities need,” Hargrove said.
