President Donald Trump addressed the sexual assault allegations against former Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner on July 9, 2026, questioning whether the public should believe the accusations. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said, “It’s really a question of whether or not you believe the woman. A lot of people say big falsehoods.”

Hours after Trump’s remarks, Platner suspended his campaign following two rape accusations and prior controversies involving racist online remarks and a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol. In an 11-minute video, Platner denied the rape allegations, stating, “It’s not real.” He added, “It has placed an immense amount of weight on me as I think about what needs to happen now.”

Platner claimed the allegations surfaced just days before the July 13 deadline to drop out of the race, suggesting they were intended to prevent him from advancing to the November general election. He also accused the Democratic establishment of preferring Republican Senator Susan Collins to win over him becoming Maine’s next senator.

Following the allegations, prominent supporters Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren withdrew their endorsements. Meanwhile, Jackson, speaking on NBC’s "Meet the Press Now," expressed intent to continue the movement initiated by Platner, focusing on issues like Medicare for All, workers’ rights, prescription drug reform, and ending the war.

Sources