Overview
- A Politico report Monday said Jenny Racicot accused Graham Platner of forcing her to have sex in late 2021 and cited therapist notes and other corroborating contacts.
- Platner denied the allegation in a video, said he is 'reflecting on the best path forward,' and paused campaign events.
- Top Democrats including Senate leader Chuck Schumer, DSCC chair Kirsten Gillibrand and Sen. Elizabeth Warren publicly urged Platner to withdraw while several endorsers rescinded support and the DSCC warned it will withhold funding if he remains on the ballot.
- Maine law requires a candidate to withdraw by 5 p.m. on July 13 for the party to replace them and gives the party until July 27 to name a successor, forcing a fast vetting and selection process.
- Democrats warn Platner’s prior controversies — a now-covered tattoo tied to Nazi imagery, offensive online posts and verified explicit messages — could taint any replacement and Republicans have already begun ad buys to exploit the disorder.