Maine Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner announced Wednesday that he is suspending his campaign following a sexual assault allegation made by a woman who said the incident occurred during their past relationship.
Platner denied the allegation, calling it “categorically false,” but said the loss of support from Democratic leaders and campaign organizations made it impossible for his campaign to continue. He said he plans to formally withdraw from the race before the state’s filing deadline.
Campaign Suspension
In an 11-minute video posted on social media, Platner said suspending his campaign should not be interpreted as an admission of guilt.
He said political pressure from state and national Democratic leaders had effectively ended his campaign, despite his continued denial of the allegation.
Under Maine law, Platner must formally withdraw from the race by Monday at 5 p.m. The Maine Democratic Party will then have until July 27 to select a replacement nominee.
Allegation
The allegation was made by Jenny Racicot, who told Politico and CNN that Platner entered her home without permission in late 2021 and sexually assaulted her after the two had previously been in a consensual dating relationship.
Racicot said she repeatedly told Platner to stop during the encounter.
Platner has denied the allegation, stating that it is false and rejecting the claims made against him.
The allegation has not been adjudicated in court.
Political Response
Following publication of the allegation, several Democratic leaders called on Platner to withdraw from the race.
Among those urging him to step aside were Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, and Sen. Bernie Sanders, who had previously supported his campaign.
The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) announced it would not invest in the race if Platner remained the nominee, while the Senate Majority PAC said it would redirect its resources elsewhere.
Several members of Congress also withdrew their endorsements.
Replacement Process
The Maine Democratic Party said it will hold a nominating convention to choose a new Senate candidate after Platner formally withdraws.
Party officials said additional details about the selection process will be announced in the coming days.
Platner urged party leaders to conduct what he described as an open and transparent process to select the new nominee.
Background
Platner, a 41-year-old veteran and oyster farmer, won the Democratic Senate primary after Governor Janet Mills decided not to enter the race.
His campaign had previously faced scrutiny over past online posts, a tattoo he later acknowledged and covered, and reports regarding his personal relationships.
Platner has previously said he struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder and alcohol use during a difficult period in his life but has denied allegations of criminal misconduct.
The Maine Senate race remains one of the most closely watched contests of the election cycle, with Democrats seeking to challenge longtime Republican Sen. Susan Collins.
FAQs
Why did Graham Platner suspend his campaign?
He suspended it after a sexual assault allegation and loss of party support.
Did Platner deny the allegation?
Yes. He has repeatedly denied the allegation.
Who made the allegation?
A Maine woman named Jenny Racicot.
Who will replace Platner?
The Maine Democratic Party will choose a new nominee.
Who is the Republican incumbent?
Republican Sen. Susan Collins.
