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Graham Platner suspends Maine Senate campaign after sexual assault allegation

Published July 9, 2026 at 8:14 AM UTC

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Graham Platner, the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate in Maine, has suspended his campaign following a sexual assault allegation. The accusation, reported by Politico, involves a former girlfriend who alleges that in late 2021, Platner entered her home uninvited and forced himself on her despite her objections. Platner has denied the allegations, calling them "categorically false." In a video statement, he acknowledged the political pressure and media scrutiny but stated that he is suspending campaign operations. This development has prompted prominent Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, to call for his immediate withdrawal from the race. Platner's exit presents a significant challenge for Democrats aiming to unseat Republican Senator Susan Collins, as they now have until July 27 to select a replacement candidate. Potential successors include former CDC director Nirav Shah and former Maine Senate President Troy Jackson. The party faces the dilemma of choosing a nominee who can appeal to both the progressive base and moderate independents to effectively challenge Collins in the upcoming election.