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Senator Susan Collins asks supporters for $5 gas donations amid Iran war votes

Senator Susan Collins sent a fundraising email requesting as little as $5 to cover fuel for her statewide campaign tour, even though she voted to support the Iran conflict and her husband holds sizable oil-and-gas holdings.

A fundraising message from Senator Susan Collins urged supporters to contribute just $5 to help cover gasoline for a road-show across Maine, stretching from Kittery to Madawaska. This plea contrasts with her earlier votes that upheld President Donald Trump’s military action against Iran, a conflict that has contributed to higher fuel costs for Americans. Financial disclosures show that her husband, Thomas Daffron, possesses up to $150,000 in holdings of oil and gas companies including ConocoPhillips and Phillips 66.

While Collins initially defended continued U.S. involvement, she later called for clearer congressional authority and limits on further action. A spokesperson noted that Daffron’s investment choices are managed by an independent adviser. The senator’s office and campaign did not respond to requests for comment.

Why it matters

Voters see a disconnect between a lawmaker’s war stance, personal financial interests and a modest fundraising ask for fuel.

How this story developed

  1. Aug 7 Democrats rally behind Maine Senate nominee amid family-relation allegations
  2. Aug 10 A genealogical link between Jackson and Lana Pelletier was disclosed.
  3. Aug 13 A new poll shows Jackson with a two‑point advantage over Collins.
  4. Aug 13 A police record from 1988 detailing Jackson’s assault and a disputed claim of pushing his partner was released by the Bangor Daily News.

In this story

fundraisinggas moneyIran waroil stockscampaign tourfuel pricescongressional war powers
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