Democrat Graham Platner has remained silent on whether he will exit the Maine U.S. Senate race following a sexual assault allegation from a former girlfriend. Platner denies the accusation and is reportedly facing pressure from within his own party to step down. The uncertainty surrounding his candidacy comes just months before the November midterm elections.
According to Maine law, a candidate must voluntarily withdraw by 5 p.m. on July 13 for a replacement to be considered. If Platner withdraws, the Maine Democratic Party would have until July 27 to select a successor. The process for choosing a replacement is not yet public and could involve a vote by the state committee, a caucus, or a convention.
The Maine Democratic Party stated it would announce the selection process publicly once Platner officially withdraws. Party officials have indicated that Platner’s campaign has attempted to influence the selection of a potential replacement, a claim Platner’s team denies, stating they are only seeking to understand the process. They believe the thousands of voters and volunteers who supported Platner, a progressive who won the primary against an establishment-backed candidate, should be considered.
Potential contenders have begun to express interest. Nirav Shah, former director of Maine’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention, is evaluating a potential run and has communicated with the party about ensuring an open and transparent selection process. Troy Jackson, former Maine state Senate president, has filed paperwork to launch a Senate exploratory committee and previously ran for governor with Platner's support. Jordan Wood, a former U.S. Senate candidate, is also reportedly in discussions with voters about joining the race.
Other names being circulated as possible replacements include Shenna Bellows, the current Maine secretary of state; Dan Kleban, founder of Maine Beer Co.; and Hannah Pingree, who is the Democratic nominee for governor. Platner’s campaign had energized numerous volunteers statewide, many of whom have expressed disappointment over the accusations and are considering the appropriate next steps.