Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., has called on Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., to apologize for his support of Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner, who is facing serious sexual assault allegations. The demand comes after Jenny Racicot accused Platner of sexually assaulting her nearly five years ago.
Racicot detailed her allegations in interviews with Politico and CNN, claiming Platner entered her home uninvited, while intoxicated, and sexually assaulted her despite her attempts to refuse. She stated that the encounter ended their relationship.
Platner's campaign has denied Racicot's accusations. In a statement, the campaign indicated that Platner was "taking the time to reflect on the best path forward" for his candidacy.
Fetterman stated Monday on "The Ingraham Angle" that Sanders should apologize for supporting Platner, whom Fetterman referred to as a "predator." "He helped him [become the Democratic nominee], and now [he should] apologize to the victims, especially the woman that she claimed that he raped her," Fetterman said. "I don't know why you want to keep pushing these kinds of people."
Following the allegations, prominent Democrats, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., have called on Platner to withdraw from the race. Sanders, however, has not publicly commented on the allegations or Fetterman's demand for an apology.
Fetterman also referenced past criticisms he has made regarding Platner's conduct, including questioning his behavior on the Kik platform and urging him to release private messages with women.
Fetterman expressed sympathy for Racicot, stating, "It was very brave for her to come [forward with] this. I'm so sorry for what she's been through."