Democrats Urge Maine Senate Candidate to Drop Out After Sexual Assault Allegations

Graham Platner, the Maine Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate, has been accused by a woman he dated of “sexual assault.” The allegations, first reported in a series of Politico interviews published Monday, have triggered a swift response from key Democratic figures.

Allegations Surface

Jenny Racicot, 41, claims she was sexually assaulted by Platner when he entered her home uninvited after an on‑and‑off relationship that lasted two years. She says Platner was intoxicated during the encounter and subsequently cut contact, stating the assault was non‑consensual.

Racicot said she publicly spoke out because she felt the New York Times report that detailed other women’s claims had failed to bring justice. A second woman, Lyndsey Fifield, in Washington, D.C., alleges Platner removed condoms during sex—an act some states label illegal.

Political Storm

Senator Bernie Sanders, one of Platner’s largest backers, said he had “recommended that he step aside” in light of the serious allegations. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand released a statement describing the claims as “incredibly disturbing.”

Senators Elizabeth Warren, Cory Booker, Elissa Slotkin, and Congressman Ro Khanna withdrew endorsements, and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee declared it would not invest in the Maine race if Platner remained on the ballot.

State lawmakers who previously endorsed Platner rescinded support, citing the allegations as “troubling and deeply serious.” The Maine Democratic Party issued a statement calling for Platner to “withdraw as the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate.”

Campaign Fallout

Platner has faced multiple controversies, including a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol, comments dismissing rape, and alleged infidelity. He has denied the current allegations, describing them as “categorically false but mindful of political realities.” The campaign postponed several events in the wake of the scandal, and the BBC has requested comments.

Future Options

If Platner drops out by the July 13 deadline, the state could install another Democratic candidate. Former state Senate president Troy Jackson has set up an exploratory committee to launch a campaign should Platner step aside, while former Maine health agency director Nirav Shah is considering a run.

The race becomes critical for Democrats as they seek a Senate majority in the upcoming midterms.