Maine Democratic Party officials and national strategists are calling for Senate candidate Graham Platner to exit the race following a new allegation of sexual assault. Platner, who secured the Democratic nomination to challenge Republican Sen. Susan Collins, has denied the accusation.
The new allegation, reported Monday, details an incident in 2021 where Platner allegedly drunkenly entered the home of a woman he was dating and assaulted her. Platner responded by posting a video stating he was taking time off the campaign trail to "reflect on the best path forward," while denying the assault.
Both the Maine Democratic Party and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) have publicly called for Platner to withdraw. The DSCC and the main super PAC for Senate Democrats announced they would cease investing in the Maine race as long as Platner remained the nominee. The Maine Democratic Party leadership stated, "We stand with women and survivors, and that principle does not bend based on party affiliation."
Platner indicated in his video that his decision would be influenced by his ability to defeat Collins, a five-term incumbent. "Regardless of the inaccuracy of the reporting, but mindful of the political reality it will inflict, we are taking the time to reflect on the best path forward for the state that I love, the people that I love, the movement I belong to, and the goal of defeating Susan Collins," he said.
Beyond the sexual assault allegation, fundraising for Platner's campaign has reportedly slowed since the revelation of explicit text messages he sent to women who were not his wife. A campaign memo last week suggested a need for assistance from outside groups to counter Republican spending.
If Platner steps down, the Maine Democratic Party would have until July 27 to select a new nominee. The deadline for Platner to withdraw is July 13. Several potential replacements are already being discussed by Democratic operatives in Washington D.C. and Maine.
Four names emerging as potential successors include former state Senate President Troy Jackson, Maine Beer Company Founder Dan Kleban, former state CDC leader Nirav Shah, and Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows. All except Kleban were candidates in this year's race for governor. Operatives note that unexpected candidates could also emerge.
Troy Jackson, who has aligned with Platner's populist politics and has strong ties to organized labor, has expressed interest in the race. Nirav Shah, who has high name recognition from leading the state's public health response during the COVID-19 pandemic, is also being encouraged to enter the race. Shenna Bellows previously ran against Collins in 2014.
Polls have shown Platner in a close race with Collins, but some suggest a different Democratic candidate might perform better. A recent New York Times/Siena College survey indicated Platner leading Collins 49% to 47%, while Democrats held a 53% to 42% lead on the generic ballot.
Democrats need to unseat Collins to bolster their chances of regaining control of the Senate in November's elections.