Democratic Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner faces mounting political fallout after new sexual assault allegations surfaced. A woman named Racicot accused Platner of arriving at her home extremely intoxicated and forcing himself upon her in 2021. Platner has denied the allegations, calling them “categorically untrue.”

Despite his denial, several prominent Democrats quickly withdrew their support. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) Chair Senator Kristin Gillibrand of New York urged Platner to immediately withdraw as the Democratic nominee to allow Maine Democrats to select a candidate capable of defeating incumbent Senator Susan Collins. Gillibrand stated, “The DSCC will not invest in the Maine Senate race if Platner remains on the ballot.”

Ro Khanna, who had previously said that evidence of sexual assault would end his support, withdrew his endorsement shortly after the new allegations emerged. Additionally, Neera Tanden, a key figure in Democratic political operations, posted on X appearing to celebrate the news, questioning the wisdom of backing a candidate who has never won a primary or general election and wondering what others knew and when.

Platner had built a significant polling lead just over two months ago, enough to push Maine’s sitting governor out of the Democratic Senate primary. However, the credibility concerns raised by the allegations have overshadowed his campaign.

Sources