Graham Platner to make public appearance amid sexual assault allegations

Former Democratic U.S. Senate nominee Graham Platner is set to make his first major public appearance since withdrawing from his campaign in July. Platner is scheduled to speak at a Labor Day rally at Ellsworth City Hall, hosted by the Hancock County Democrats, where he is expected to discuss the history of unions and organized labor.

Platner’s campaign for the Senate seat held by Republican Susan Collins ended abruptly following allegations of sexual misconduct. Two women, Jenny Racicot and Lyndsey Fifield, have publicly denounced his return to the public stage. In a joint statement, they accused Platner of failing to take accountability and continuing to spread lies about the past.

While Platner maintains his innocence and has reportedly been reaching out to former political allies, his return has raised questions regarding a potential write-in campaign, as it is too late for him to appear on Maine’s November ballot as an independent candidate.