Maine Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner is reportedly considering withdrawing from the race challenging incumbent Republican Susan Collins. The decision is contingent on his party finding a suitable replacement who aligns with his policy positions, according to a source familiar with the campaign discussions.
Platner's campaign team and advisers are actively deliberating the potential exit, a move that follows rescinded endorsements from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC), Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, and other party leaders. These actions came after allegations from Platner's ex-girlfriend that he raped her in 2021.
A source close to the discussions told The New York Post that Platner believes any potential successor would want his endorsement, suggesting his team is "delusional" for not recognizing the gravity of the situation. Despite this, Platner's campaign and political strategist, Morris Katz, are reportedly still recommending he remain in the race. Representatives for Platner's campaign did not immediately respond to requests for comment.