Maine Democrats scramble to replace withdrawn Senate hopeful ahead of July convention

Senate hopeful David Costello was gathering signatures in downtown Brunswick on Sunday, positioning himself as a progressive alternative after Graham Platner exited the race. Platner, who had won the June Democratic primary, withdrew last week amid allegations of rape, which he denies. The Maine Democratic Party will convene 601 delegates on July 25 to name a replacement candidate before the July 27 filing deadline. The nominee will need to harness the enthusiasm Platner generated to compete with Republican Sen. Susan Collins, who has held the seat since 1997 and was re-elected in 2020 with an 8.5% margin.

State Senate President Mattie Daughtry expressed concern that voters might be skeptical after the scandal, but emphasized the need for a candidate who can relate to working-class struggles. "I ran for office when I was 25 because I was really angry," Daughtry said, describing her own experience with economic hardship.

Among Platner’s supporters, reactions are mixed. Former campaign attendee Alan Crichton described the situation as "a big old mess" but said he will back whichever candidate the party selects, hoping they can "carry the torch" Platner lit. Independent voter Joseph Berube, who had considered donating to Platner, criticized the rapid judgment of the allegations while affirming support for women's rights. Long-time activist Charlotte Agell said the movement remains focused on "taking back this country for the middle and the working class" despite the setback.

State Senator Chip Curry said the party is working within a tight timeline and believes the race is winnable. With more than half a dozen candidates announced, no clear front-runner has emerged, but Costello remains optimistic that the eventual nominee will receive strong backing.