Bernie Sanders urges Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner to withdraw amid sexual assault allegations

Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont said Tuesday he had spoken with Graham Platner about the "best path forward for Maine" and recommended that the candidate withdraw from the U.S. Senate race following "very serious allegations" of sexual assault. The call came hours after a second allegation was reported, adding to earlier accusations that had already drawn criticism from prominent Democrats.

Platner, who denies the claims, was accused by Jenny Racicot, a former partner, of forcing sexual activity while he was heavily intoxicated five years ago. The allegation was first reported by Politico and later referenced by the Washington Post.

The Maine Democratic Party said it is developing an "open, inclusive, transparent and fair" process to select a new nominee, but it will not disclose details until Platner formally withdraws. Party executive director Devon Murphy-Anderson warned Platner’s team that they have no role in determining the next nominee.

The development adds pressure on the Democratic ticket in a key Senate contest, as the party seeks to avoid further controversy while maintaining its electoral prospects.