Maine Democratic Leaders Demand Candidate Withdrawal Over Sexual Assault Allegations

Maine's top Democratic Party leaders are urging Senate candidate Graham Platner to withdraw from the race following a report by POLITICO that details allegations of sexual assault against him. The party's leadership, including Chair Charlie Dingman, Vice Chair Imke Schessler, and Executive Director Devon Murphy-Anderson, issued a joint statement expressing their support for women and survivors and called on Platner to step down immediately. This call comes as the July 13 deadline approaches for candidates to drop out of the race under Maine law.

The allegations stem from an incident five years ago when a woman who dated Platner said he entered her home uninvited and forced himself on her despite her repeated protests. The victim, Jenny Racicot, ended their relationship after confronting him about his non-consensual behavior. In response to these claims, Platner has denied any wrongdoing, stating that the accusations are "troubling, serious, and false."

The Maine Democratic Party's stance is significant as it holds the power to replace Platner on the ballot if he chooses to withdraw before the deadline. The party leaders emphasized their commitment to upholding high standards for candidates who seek to represent the state, particularly in light of the upcoming election against Republican Senator Susan Collins. They argue that this race is crucial in the fight against a government that prioritizes the interests of the wealthy over ordinary citizens.

Several prominent Democrats, including Rep. Ro Khanna and Sen. Ruben Gallego, have also joined the chorus calling for Platner's withdrawal or condemnation of his actions. State Senate President Mattie Daughtry echoed similar sentiments, stressing the importance of a nominee with "dignity, judgment, and personal character" to represent Maine in the U.S. Senate.