Democrats Withdraw Support for Maine Senate Candidate Over Assault Allegation

Prominent Democratic supporters have withdrawn their endorsements for Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner following a sexual assault allegation made by a former partner. The woman, Jenny Racicot, told Politico that Platner drunkenly forced her to have sex in 2021 after she told him to stop. Racicot stated that she had an on-and-off relationship with Platner and cut off contact after the incident, which she described as non-consensual. She also told CNN that she did not fight back due to fear of Platner, a former Marine, becoming more violent.

Platner has denied the allegation, calling it "categorically false" in a social media video released on Monday. He indicated that he was considering the "best path forward" for his campaign, acknowledging the "political reality" the reporting would inflict. Platner's campaign did not immediately respond to requests for comment from The Associated Press.

The allegation has thrown the must-win race for the Democratic Party into turmoil. Platner secured the Democratic nomination last month and was set to challenge Republican Sen. Susan Collins, who has held the seat for nearly 30 years. The sexual assault claim has led to a significant backlash against Platner, who has canceled several town hall events. The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee has called for Platner to drop out and stated it will not allocate any funds to the race if he remains the candidate, highlighting the race's importance for Senate control.