Maine Democratic Senate Candidate Graham Platner Denies New Sexual Assault Allegation and Says He Will Reflect on Candidacy
Graham Platner, the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate in Maine, has denied a recent sexual assault accusation and announced he will consider the best way forward for his campaign, while several high-profile supporters have withdrawn their endorsements.
The Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate in Maine, Graham Platner, has rejected a new allegation of sexual assault made by a former girlfriend, Jenny Racicot, who says Platton forced himself on her in 2021 after arriving at her home while intoxicated. Platton issued a video statement calling the claim "categorically false" and describing it as part of a broader smear effort.
In the same video, Platton said he is "taking time to reflect on the best path forward for the state that I love, the people that I love, the movement I belong to, and the goal of defeating Susan Collins," indicating that the controversy could affect his campaign.
The allegation prompted two prominent Democratic members of Congress to withdraw their endorsements. Rep. Ro Khanna said the accusations are "very serious and credible" and that Platton should drop out of the race, while Sen. Ruben Gallego described the claims as "troubling and deeply serious" and also rescinded his support.
Politico reported that Racicot told the outlet she remembered Platton grabbing her pelvis and feeling she could no longer choose, and that she decided to come forward despite agreeing with him politically. The publication said it reviewed messages between Racicot and her therapist and spoke to two individuals she confided in during 2023.
Platton won the Democratic primary on June 9 with more than 70% of the vote. Under Maine law, a candidate may withdraw by July 13, after which the state Democratic Party would have until July 27 to name a replacement. Platton's campaign said no replacement would be sought.
The story follows earlier reporting that several women, coordinated by attorney and activist Cheyenne Hunt, had contacted her about personal relationships with Platton. Hunt described the women’s actions as courageous and said the allegations make Platton unfit for office.
No independent verification of the claim has been provided, and Racicot did not comment through a representative. The case adds uncertainty to a Senate race that Democrats view as pivotal for regaining control of the chamber.
