Graham Platner, the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate in Maine, faces widespread calls to withdraw following a sexual assault allegation. The accusation, reported by Politico on July 7, comes from a former girlfriend who says Platner raped her in 2021. Platner has denied the claim.
Jenny Racicot told Politico that Platner entered her home uninvited while intoxicated and forced her into sex despite her objections. She said she later told him the encounter was non-consensual. A separate allegation from another ex-girlfriend, Lyndsey Fifield, claims Platner removed condoms without consent during their relationship years earlier.
Platner has denied both accusations, calling them false and politically motivated. In a video statement, he said his campaign is taking time to reflect on the best path forward. As of July 7, he had not decided whether to exit the race.
More than 30 Democratic senators, including Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, have urged Platner to step aside. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said the party will not invest in the race if Platner remains the nominee. Maine Democrats have until July 13 to select a replacement if he withdraws.
