Democrats and progressives have urged Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner to end his campaign following new allegations of sexual assault. The calls intensified on Monday after Politico reported that Maine resident Jenny Racicot accused Platner of forcing her to have sex with him while he was intoxicated in 2021.

Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), who had previously defended Platner, stated on social media that "sexual assault or violence against women is a red line" and described the allegations as "very serious and credible." He added, "I’ve always called balls and strikes regardless of party, and in this case, I believe Graham Platner should immediately drop out. These allegations are extremely serious, disturbing, and disqualifying."

Other prominent Democrats echoed these sentiments. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) called the allegations "troubling and deeply serious," while Florida Senate candidate Alex Vindman (D) said, "being a father and husband, I have zero tolerance for physical or sexual misconduct."

End Citizens United president Tiffany Muller condemned the conduct, stating, "The conduct described is fundamentally inconsistent with the standards we expect from the candidates we support. No candidate, elected official, or political party is exempt from accountability."

In response to the allegations, Maine state party leaders withdrew their endorsement of Platner, noting that "over the past several weeks, multiple women have made serious, credible allegations against Graham Platner," and that "today’s statements take those allegations even further."

Additionally, a June article by The New York Times referenced by Piker highlighted Platner's past behavior, describing messages that suggested he was "not of the highest moral character," but emphasized that the recent accusations go beyond previous concerns.

Sources