Graham Platner considering ‘best path forward’ in Maine Senate race after denying sexual assault claim

Key Points:

• Maine Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner faces a new sexual assault allegation from a former girlfriend, Jenny Racicot, who claims he forced himself on her in 2021; Platner denies the accusation, calling it false and part of a coordinated smear campaign.
• Following the allegation, several prominent Democratic supporters, including Rep. Ro Khanna and Sen. Ruben Gallego, withdrew their endorsements, citing the seriousness and credibility of the claims.
• Platner’s campaign emphasized the timing of the report, suggesting political motives as it surfaced just before the candidate withdrawal deadline, and stated Platner is reflecting on the best path forward but has not indicated he will drop out.
• The allegations have injected turmoil into a critical Senate race for Democrats, with Platner having won the primary with over 70% support and the party facing a July 27 deadline to replace him if he withdraws.
• The report was based on interviews and reviewed communications, while Platner’s campaign maintains the accusations are untrue and politically motivated; the situation continues to unfold amid calls for accountability and support for sexual assault survivors.