Senator Jackson said he does not regret telling fellow lawmaker Senator Collins to “shut up” after a protester interrupted a Maine Senate debate, a remark that drew criticism from some observers.
The incident occurred during a public debate in Maine where a protester stepped onto the stage, disrupting the proceedings and prompting an exchange between the two senators. In the heat of the moment, Jackson told Collins to be quiet, a comment that was captured on video and later circulated in the media.
When asked about the episode, Jackson defended his response, saying the interruption warranted a firm reaction and that he stands by his words. He added that the protester was identified as a supporter of Troy, a detail that became a point of contention.
“She said that it was a Troy supporter. She accused me of setting that up. I had no idea who it was,” Jackson said.
Jackson denied any involvement in arranging the protest, insisting he was unaware of the protester’s affiliation and that the accusation of “setting it up” was unfounded.
Protests at political events are not uncommon in the United States, and Maine’s public forums have occasionally seen disruptions. The debate over appropriate conduct for elected officials during such interruptions continues to be a topic of public discussion.
<small>Source: PBS NewsHour — read the original story there.</small>
