Progressive Senator Bernie Sanders has called on Graham Platner to withdraw from the US Senate race in Maine due to "very serious allegations" of sexual assault. Platner has denied the claims, which were first reported by Politico, but a growing number of Democrats have urged him to step aside as the party’s candidate.

In response to the allegations, several senior Democrats have pulled their endorsements, and the party’s main fundraising vehicle for Senate candidates announced it would withhold further spending in Maine until Platner withdraws. Platner has stated he is "taking the time to reflect on the best path forward" following the story.

Maine Democratic officials have indicated that if Platner ends his campaign by 5pm ET on Monday, 13 July, the party would have a two-week window until 5pm ET on Monday, 27 July, to select a replacement nominee for the November general election. Devon Murphy-Anderson, executive director of the Maine Democratic party, said any selection process would be "open, transparent, and inclusive," aiming for broad participation from Mainers and Democratic voters.

Among those calling for Platner to step down is Jackson, a logger and former state lawmaker who campaigned alongside Platner. Jackson emphasized the importance of supporting survivors of sexual violence, stating, "We cannot ask women to trust us with their futures while looking the other way when one of our own hurts them." He also expressed interest in replacing Platner if the seat becomes available.

The Bangor Daily News reported that other potential replacements, including Shah and Bellows, have received encouraging support as possible candidates.

Sources