Maine Democrats will hold a convention on July 25 to select a replacement for Graham Platner in the U.S. Senate race. Platner withdrew from the race on July 8 after facing allegations of rape and sexual assault, which he denies.
Voters across the state are still processing the sudden exit of the Democratic candidate who had been leading polls against Republican incumbent Susan Collins. Several candidates have stepped forward, including Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, former Senate President Troy Jackson, and Nariv Shah.
The selection process involves county committee meetings this weekend, followed by a vote among 601 delegates at the convention. Bellows, who ran against Collins in 2014, has emphasized her experience and progressive priorities such as Medicare for All.
David Costello, who placed third in the June primary, is among those gathering the required 500 signatures to qualify. Party leaders say the process is orderly despite the short timeline.
Collins has maintained a steady presence in public events while Democrats focus on unifying around a new nominee.
