Democrat Graham Platner says he plans to withdraw from Maine Senate race after sexual assault claim
Summary
Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner announced plans to quit the Maine Senate race after a sexual assault allegation surfaced against him. His withdrawal creates challenges for Democrats trying to unite and win a key Senate seat currently held by Republican Susan Collins.Key Facts
- Graham Platner won the Democratic nomination in Maine’s Senate primary on June 9, 2026.
- Platner is accused of sexual assault by a woman who said he forced her to have sex in 2021.
- Platner denies the allegation but says he will reflect on his campaign’s future.
- Progressive leaders had supported Platner over establishment-backed Gov. Janet Mills, who dropped out earlier.
- The allegation led prominent supporters, including Senator Bernie Sanders, to ask Platner to step aside.
- Maine Democrats plan to hold a convention to select a new candidate before the general election.
- Maine’s Senate seat is crucial for control of the closely divided U.S. Senate.
- Platner has never held elected office and is a military veteran and oyster farmer.
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