Calls for Graham Platner, the Democratic candidate for US Senate in Maine, to withdraw his candidacy intensified after Jenny Racicot, a 41-year-old Maine resident who previously dated Platner, accused him of forcing her to have sex in late 2021, according to a Politico report. Platner denied the allegations, calling them “troubling, serious and false” in a video message posted to X.

Despite his denial, Maine’s Democratic party leadership and several top Democratic figures have urged Platner to step down. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer and Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee chair Kirsten Gillibrand issued a joint statement saying Platner should “immediately withdraw” and that the DSCC would not invest in the Maine Senate race if he remains on the ballot.

California Representative Ro Khanna, once a vocal supporter, also called on Platner to drop out, stating on X that sexual assault is a "red line" and the allegations are "very serious and credible." Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren, who endorsed Platner in March, said there can be no tolerance for sexual assault and urged Platner to address the allegations outside the Senate race. New Mexico Senator Martin Heinrich rescinded his endorsement, saying he could no longer support Platner’s candidacy.

Democratic Senator Ruben Gallego described the allegations as “troubling and deeply serious” and announced he would rescind his endorsement. Former Democratic National Committee interim chair Donna Brazile also stated it was time for Platner to step aside.

RNC spokesperson Kristen Cianci condemned the allegations, describing them as horrifying and highlighting what she called a pattern of violent behavior.

Platner, a Marine veteran whose rise has drawn comparisons to former President Donald Trump, remains in the race amid growing calls for his withdrawal.

Sources