Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner, who has positioned himself as a progressive challenger to incumbent Senator Susan Collins, is facing a serious allegation of sexual assault involving a former partner. The accusation emerged early Monday and has quickly dominated the political conversation in the state.
Within hours, a group of high‑profile Democratic Senate hopefuls publicly called for Platner to leave the race. The statements came from candidates in Texas, Michigan, Alaska, Ohio and Minnesota, all of whom are positioning themselves as progressive alternatives in their own contests.
Texas Senate candidate James Talarico said the allegations are credible and cannot be ignored, urging Platner to withdraw immediately. Michigan candidate Abdul El‑Sayed echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that voters deserve a Senate choice that does not force a moral compromise.
Former Alaska Representative Mary Peltola, former Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown and Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan also joined the chorus, demanding that Platner step aside to preserve the integrity of the campaign.
The coordinated condemnation marks the first time these candidates have publicly criticized Platner, despite earlier reports of concerning behavior involving women and alcohol that had previously circulated without prompting similar responses.
In a video statement released shortly after the allegation became public, Platner denied the rape claim but acknowledged its potential impact on his campaign. He said he is reflecting on the best path forward for the state, his supporters, the movement and the effort to defeat Collins.
Democratic officials have until July 13 to confirm a withdrawal, after which the state party has until July 27 to select a replacement candidate. The deadline adds pressure on party leaders to determine their next steps.
Senator Collins described the allegations as appalling but stated that the decision on the Democratic nominee is not within her purview.
