Democrats need to reel in more men. These Mainers say the party needs better bait
In Maine, male voters are expressing disillusionment with both major political parties, citing rising costs and a desire for change. The article explores how Democrats are struggling to connect with these voters in a competitive Senate race.
Why it matters
The shifting political allegiances of male voters in swing states are a key factor in determining control of the US Senate.
Ken Beaulieu is a Republican. He doesn't think Democrat Troy Jackson is the right candidate for Maine's U.S. Senate seat. But he plans to vote for him anyway.
"I'm all about change," Beaulieu said. "I don't think Troy Jackson is the right guy. But I'm voting against Susan Collins."
Beaulieu, 64, was one of four fishermen who joined Morning Edition host Leila Fadel at Upper Dam in Rangeley, Maine, for one of the last fly-fishing trips of the season. The fishermen included a Republican, an independent, a Democrat and a progressive. Their politics differed, but after an afternoon of fishing and talking about the election, the men shared some of the same frustrations: They wanted change and only a few of the men were excited about the candidates asking for their votes.
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