Key Facts

• Graham Platner filed paperwork on Friday to remove his name from the Maine Senate ballot.
• The deadline to withdraw and allow a replacement candidate is Monday at 5 p.m.
• Platner had been criticized by some Democrats for delaying his withdrawal announcement.
• The Maine Democratic Party plans to hold a nominating convention with about 600 delegates to choose Platner’s replacement.
• Platner described himself as an oyster farmer and emphasized wanting a candidate representing ordinary people.
• Multiple candidates have already entered the race to replace Platner.
• Progressives worry the nomination process may be controlled by insiders, while moderates fear it could favor left-leaning activists.
• Platner posted a letter stating his reasons and signed off with political messages, including opposition to ICE and support for Palestine.