Democratic odds to hold the US Senate seat in Maine have seen a significant increase following new allegations of sexual misconduct against the party's nominee, Graham Platner. The development has prompted discussions about potential replacements as party leaders navigate upcoming deadlines.
As of Tuesday, July 7th, Kalshi betting odds indicated a 59.2 percent chance for Democrats to defeat Republican incumbent Susan Collins. This marks a shift from July 2nd, when traders favored Collins with a 50.03 percent backing, compared to Platner's 49.7 percent.
Platner faces two critical deadlines. He must withdraw from the race by Monday, July 13th, and the Maine Democratic Party must select a replacement candidate by Monday, July 27th. Allies of Platner have suggested he would only step aside if a successor aligned with his progressive platform could be found.
Sources indicate that Maine Democrats are evaluating candidates who previously ran in 2026 races. Names being discussed by party insiders include former Maine Senate President Troy Jackson, epidemiologist Nirav Shah, Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, and former congressional candidate Jordan Wood. Troy Jackson has publicly called for Platner's withdrawal, stating, "There is no place in our politics for sexual violence. Not in our party, not in any party. Graham Platner must withdraw from this race today." However, unconfirmed reports suggest "troubling information" regarding Jackson's own behavior have surfaced.
While retiring Congressman Jared Golden is reportedly a preferred option for some Democrats, his willingness to leave his current role in Washington is considered unlikely. Governor Janet Mills, who possesses significant name recognition and fundraising ability, is also deemed highly unlikely to run, having previously lost to Platner in a Senate primary despite suspending her campaign but remaining on the ballot.
Platner, a married Iraq war veteran, was accused by an ex-girlfriend, Jenny Racicot, in a Politico report published Monday. Racicot alleged that in 2021, Platner entered her home uninvited and proceeded to have sex with her against her will after she protested. She stated that she had told him not to come over but heard him entering her unlocked house. Racicot claimed Platner was "blackout drunk" when he entered her home and ignored her protests. She further alleged he ejaculated inside her despite her request not to, citing that she was not on birth control.
Platner denied Racicot's allegations on Monday but acknowledged he was considering withdrawing from the race following the report. This is not the first time Platner has faced accusations of improper behavior, with two other former partners having previously accused him of misconduct.
The allegations have drawn immediate backlash from within the Democratic party. Representative Ro Khanna of California announced his withdrawal of endorsement, stating, "I’ve been very clear that sexual assault or violence against women is a red line. These allegations are very serious and credible. Graham Platner should drop out from the race." Senator Ruben Gallego of Arizona also rescinded his endorsement, calling the allegations "troubling and deeply serious."
Influential streamer Hasan Piker commented on the allegations during a live stream, expressing belief in the accusation and stating, "That is curtains. That is the trifecta. Okay, that is the trifecta of a reliable allegation. It's holy shit... I believe this, this accusation. I believe this allegation."
The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee stated on Monday that they would not allocate funds to the Maine Senate race if Platner remained the nominee.
Senator Susan Collins, the sole Republican candidate, is known for her independent streak and represents a state that has historically leaned Democratic in presidential elections.