Graham Platner has formally withdrawn from the Maine Senate race, citing the weight of sexual assault allegations leveled against him. Platner's decision followed an allegation made by Jenny Racicot on Monday. He had previously denied the claims in a video statement on Wednesday.
Platner's official letter of withdrawal was posted Friday afternoon on his social media accounts. The letter, described as a manifesto, concluded with an expletive directed at Immigration and Customs Enforcement, followed by statements of support for Palestine and the local soccer team,.
"F*** ICE. Free Palestine. Up the Hearts. Solidarity forever," the letter read.
Racicot, 41, told Politico that she and Platner had an on-and-off relationship for over two years. She alleged that in 2021, Platner arrived at her home uninvited. Racicot stated she had messaged Platner earlier that evening and asked him not to come over, but he entered her unlocked home. According to her account, he proceeded to ignore her protests and became forceful. Racicot told Politico that she explicitly said "No, don't," and realized there was no consent.
She further claimed that Platner followed her to her bedroom and had sex with her against her will, ejaculating inside her despite her request that he not do so due to her not being on birth control. Racicot stated that after she cleaned herself in the bathroom, Platner was asleep. The following morning, she confronted him, but Platner said he could not recall the encounter. Racicot asked him to leave and cease contact.
Platner, also 41, is a married Iraq war veteran. In his video statement on Monday, he addressed the allegations, stating, "Any accusation of nonconsensual behavior is categorically false." He acknowledged the potential political ramifications of the reporting, even if he deemed it inaccurate, and indicated he was reflecting on the best path forward for the state and the movement to defeat Senator Susan Collins.
Following the allegations, Platner faced backlash, including from Democratic lawmakers who withdrew their support.