FAIRFIELD, Maine — The man who was challenging Sen. Susan Collins from her right flank is suspending his campaign.
Derek Levasseur has been ramping up a camaign for the Republican primary next year, focusing on a conservative message and strong support for President Donald Trump.
He told NEWS CENTER Maine on Monday night that he was pressured by former Gov. Paul LePage and the state Republican Party to quit.
Levasseur says state party chair Demi Kouzounas told him the party would do anything to stop him -- a challenge he said inspired him to fight harder.
But Levasseur says most people who contribute to campaigns would be scared off from contributing to his campaign, and that the experience has taken a toll on his family.
He adds that he will withdraw from the GOP primary, but may continue on as an independent.