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Top Democrats press Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner to drop out of race over sexual assault allegation
BBC • • general
Key Points:
- Top Democrats are urging Graham Platner, Maine's Democratic Senate candidate, to withdraw from the race following sexual assault allegations made by a woman he previously dated, which he denies as "categorically false."
- The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee announced it will not fund Platner's campaign if he remains on the ballot, and several prominent Democrats, including Senators Elizabeth Warren and Cory Booker, have withdrawn their endorsements.
- Platner's campaign has postponed events amid mounting pressure, with a July 13 deadline looming for him to withdraw to allow a replacement candidate on the ballot.
- Allegations include a detailed accusation by Jenny Racicot, who claimed Platner sexually assaulted her while intoxicated, and previous reports of erratic behavior and controversial past actions, including a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol and dismissive comments about rape.
- Platner has acknowledged past personal mistakes but maintains his innocence regarding the assault claims, emphasizing his commitment to his family and the goal of defeating Republican Senator Susan Collins in the pivotal midterm race.
