Graham Platner has halted his bid for the US Senate in Maine following a wave of controversy, most notably an accusation of sexual assault. While Democrats had pressured him to withdraw, fearing the scandal would hurt their chances of flipping the Senate, Platner maintained that his departure was a response to funding threats rather than an admission of wrongdoing. He labeled the assault allegation false.
In an 11-minute video posted on X, the former military veteran and oyster farmer described the withdrawal as a difficult choice. Under Maine law, he was required to exit by July 13 to allow for a replacement candidate on the ballot. Platner had previously gained significant momentum with populist messaging and support from figures like Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, effectively pushing Governor Janet Mills out of the primary race.
However, his campaign faced multiple setbacks, including reports regarding past offensive social media posts, a former tattoo of a Nazi symbol, and allegations of infidelity. The final blow came after additional reports surfaced regarding his treatment of women. By Monday, key congressional supporters had rescinded their endorsements, and both state and national Democratic committees withdrew their financial backing.
Platner’s exit makes him the second major Democrat this year to end a campaign following sexual misconduct claims, mirroring the earlier withdrawal of Congressman Eric Swalwell from the California gubernatorial race.
