Republican Sen. Susan Collins and Democratic challenger Troy Jackson are competing in a statistically even Senate race rooted in Aroostook County, their shared birthplace and political base. Collins is from Caribou, while Jackson was born in Fort Kent, about 40 miles north. Andrew Smith, director of the University of New Hampshire Survey Center, says rural turnout could favor Collins, although both campaigns face enthusiasm challenges. Jackson entered the race after original Democratic nominee Graham Platner withdrew following allegations of rape that he denies. Collins has won five Senate races, with Aroostook County supporting her by double-digit margins each time, but Jackson's supporters believe that streak will end. Local voters are also focused on high fuel and heating costs, the effects of the Iran war, and trade tensions with Canada. The Maine Department of Energy Resources says heating oil prices have risen 74% in the last year, adding pressure on households and businesses near the border.