Graham Platner Withdraws from Maine Senate Race Amid Sexual Assault Allegations, Democrats Seek Replacement

Democratic candidate Graham Platner formally withdrew from Maine’s U.S. Senate contest after a woman alleged he raped her in 2021, a claim he denied. The withdrawal was filed with the state secretary of office and posted on social media, ending a campaign that had been a focal point for Democrats hoping to flip the seat held by Republican Sen. Susan Collins. Maine election law gives the party until July 27 to name a new nominee, prompting a rushed nominating convention. Potential replacements include former state Senate President Troy Jackson, former CDC director Nirav Shah, Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, Maine Beer Co. co‑founder Dan Kleban, former congressional candidate Paige Loud and former staffer Jordan Wood. The timing also coincided with a $6.2 million pull‑back of ad reservations from Platner’s campaign by groups linked to Senate Majority PAC. Campaign adviser Morris Katz later said the team had recommended suspension as soon as the allegation surfaced, contradicting earlier denials. The fallout has spurred criticism of the recruiting activist Daniel Moraff and of Katz’s consulting firm, with the Democratic Socialists of America urging candidates to avoid working with them.