CA, US & World
Bernie Sanders Rallies Progressives for Graham Platner and Troy Jackson in Maine
PORTLAND, Maine — U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders traveled to Maine over Memorial Day weekend to energize the state’s progressive base, throwing his considerable political weight behind a pair of high-profile, labor-endorsed Democratic candidates ahead of the upcoming June primary elections.
The Independent senator from Vermont made consecutive campaign appearances on Sunday in Orono and Monday evening at Thompson's Point in Portland. The high-energy events drew hundreds of local voters and served as the latest stops on Sanders' ongoing nationwide "Fighting Oligarchy" tour, an initiative dedicated to challenging deep-pocketed corporate interests and the billionaire class.
Sanders focused his message on systemic economic reform, advocating for wealth redistribution, universal healthcare, and stronger protections for working-class families. During his remarks, Sanders threw full support behind local oyster farmer Graham Platner for the U.S. Senate and former state Senate President Troy Jackson for Governor, praising both men as authentic advocates for everyday workers.
A Push for a Political Revolution in the Senate
Graham Platner, a political newcomer and independent oyster farmer from Sullivan, has quickly captured grassroots momentum. Following the unexpected exit of Governor Janet Mills from the Senate primary race last month, Platner has emerged as a presumptive progressive frontrunner.
"We can have an economy and a government that works for the 99% and not just the 1%," Platner told the enthusiastic crowd gathered in Portland. "But we are not going to get any of this with speeches alone, or with any politician alone."
Platner, who faces a primary challenge from Democrat David Costello on June 9, called for nothing less than a "political revolution" to unseat five-term incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins in the November general election.
The Five-Way Battle for the Blaine House
Meanwhile, Troy Jackson is navigating a highly competitive five-way Democratic primary for the gubernatorial nomination. A fifth-generation logger from Allagash, Jackson highlighted his long history of defending labor unions and rural communities within the state legislature.
Jackson pointed directly to the undue influence of corporate power holding back local communities, promising that a government under his administration would strictly serve the public interest. "The billionaires are going to be fine," Jackson said during his address. "That's not who I'm worried about. I'm fighting for us because you're my only special interest."
The joint appearances underscored a highly coordinated campaign strategy. In Maine’s ranked-choice voting system, Platner recently confirmed he cast his top gubernatorial vote for Jackson, while also ranking progressive allies Hannah Pingree and Shenna Bellows to consolidate support against primary polling leader Nirav Shah.
With Maine’s primary election day scheduled for June 9, local voters are preparing to decide whether this populist surge will define the state's political direction heading into the critical fall midterms.
Explore NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the valley.
By: CNN Newsource
May 26, 2026
Latest Instagram Posts
We’re in Palm Desert this morning as demonstrators gather for the No Kings rally, joining a nationwide day of protests and calls for political accountability. We’re talking with people at the rally about why they’re here and what they hope their voices will accomplish. Events are taking place across the country, with organizers also encouraging voter participation ahead of the election. Follow NBC Palm Springs for more voices and scenes from today’s rally. #NBCPalmSprings #PalmDesert #NoKings #CoachellaValley #Protest CommunityVoices
We’re in Cathedral City this morning for the No Kings: Vote Early event, joining communities across the country focused on getting voters to the polls. We’re talking with people here about why they came out and what motivated them to participate. Nearly 3,000 events are taking place nationwide to encourage early voting and civic engagement. Stay with NBC Palm Springs for local voices and perspectives from today’s event. #NBCPalmSprings #CathedralCity #NoKings #VoteEarly #CoachellaValley CommunityVoices
“NO KINGS: VOTE EARLY”: Residents gathered at Palm Springs City Hall for the “No Kings: Vote Early” event, sharing what brought them out and why making their voices heard matters. #NoKings #PalmSprings #CoachellaValley #VoteEarly #civicengagement
Meet Gavin, aka “Banana Boy”! The Coachella Valley Firebirds fan favorite stopped by Very Caliente to share how his love of Fortnite inspired his iconic Peely costume — and his signature dance to “Peanut Butter Jelly Time” on the jumbotron. And yes, we finally got to see the face behind the banana! #NBCPalmSprings #VeryCaliente #CVFirebirds #BananaBoy #CoachellaValley
The #NorteFire is spreading near San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente. Fire crews are working to contain the blaze as conditions develop. Stay tuned to NBC Palm Springs for updates. #NorteFire #SouthernCalifornia #Wildfire #SanJuanCapistrano SanClemente NBCPalmSprings
Strong winds are expected across Southern California today, with speeds reaching 25 to 35 mph. Officials warn of possible falling trees, downed power lines and hazardous driving conditions, especially for high-profile vehicles. Southern California Edison says emergency crews will be on standby for possible power outages. If you see a downed power line, stay away and call 911. #SouthernCalifornia #CoachellaValley #WindAdvisory #PowerOutage #SouthernCaliforniaEdison NBCPalmSprings
Sordid Lives is returning to Palm Canyon Theater October 30 through November 15! Playwright Del Shores joins NBC Palm Springs’ Tod Macofsky to talk about the beloved production and its long history in the Coachella Valley. Want to see the show? NBC Palm Springs is giving away two tickets! Enter on the promotions page at NBCPalmSprings.com. #SordidLives #DelShores #PalmCanyonTheater #PalmSprings #CoachellaValley DesertEntertainment NBCPalmSprings
🗣️ NO KINGS DEMONSTRATIONS ARE COMING BACK TO THE COACHELLA VALLEY! Thousands of demonstrations are planned nationwide Saturday, including FIVE right here in the Valley. Organizers say the goal is to help eligible voters prepare for the polls and know their rights. 📍 Events are planned in Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Palm Desert and Indio. Will you be hitting the streets this weekend? 👀 #NoKings #CoachellaValley #PalmSprings #Indio #CaliforniaNews
☕️ Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. No Kings protests?
Now Open! The new Agua Caliente gas station on Highway 111 in Cathedral City is officially open. A new stop for drivers in the Coachella Valley. Have you checked it out yet? #CathedralCity #AguaCaliente #CoachellaValley #NBCPalmSprin