Fact-checking Claims from Heated Jackson-Charles Debate

Gubernatorial candidates spar over taxes, immigration, and addiction treatment

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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In a raucous debate ahead of their respective gubernatorial primaries, Democratic candidate Troy Jackson and Republican candidate Bobby Charles made a number of claims that were fact-checked by the Bangor Daily News. The debate was marked by insults and interruptions from the limited audience.

Why it matters

The debate between the two candidates served as a sideshow to their primary races, but the claims made provide insight into their policy positions and governing philosophies should they win their party's nominations.

The details

Jackson challenged Charles to the debate after weeks of antagonism, with Charles placing Jackson on an 'Audit Augusta' website and Jackson blaming Charles for 'whipping up hate' against a Somali-American lawmaker. During the debate, the candidates traded barbs on issues like eliminating the state income tax, arresting federal immigration agents, and the efficacy of faith-based addiction treatment programs. The Bangor Daily News fact-checked four of the key claims made by the candidates.

  • The debate took place on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.

The players

Troy Jackson

A Democrat and former Maine Senate president from Allagash who is running for governor.

Bobby Charles

A Republican lawyer from Leeds who is running for governor.

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What they’re saying

“In terms of cutting costs in the state of Maine, I'm going to eliminate the income tax. It'll take four years. We're going to get rid of it.”

— Bobby Charles, Gubernatorial Candidate (Bangor Daily News)

“I would arrest officers that violate the Constitution, go after people that are black and brown, and make examples of people that aren't following the law.”

— Troy Jackson, Gubernatorial Candidate (Bangor Daily News)

“In terms of faith-based prevention and treatment, absolutely, they are incredibly powerful. They work. They have worked just as well as anything you call evidence based.”

— Bobby Charles, Gubernatorial Candidate (Bangor Daily News)

“Bobby going on about my problems or whatever … read [the Maine Ethics Commission]. Five to nothing.”

— Troy Jackson, Gubernatorial Candidate (Bangor Daily News)

What’s next

The candidates will continue to campaign ahead of their respective party primaries, with the winner of each primary advancing to the general election for Maine governor.

The takeaway

The heated debate between Jackson and Charles provided a glimpse into the stark policy differences between the two gubernatorial candidates, as well as the personal animosity that has developed between them. Voters will have to weigh these contrasting visions and personalities as they choose their party's nominee for the state's top office.