What happens next if Platner drops out? Here's who could replace him on the ballot and how it would work

Maine Democrats Consider Options to Replace Senate Candidate Graham Platner on Ballot

Several individuals have been discussed as possible replacements for Democratic U.S. Senate nominee Graham Platner in Maine if he withdraws from the race. Under state law, the Maine Democratic Party may select a new nominee through its internal procedures if Platner formally withdraws by 5 p.m. on July 13. Any replacement must be chosen by July 27.

Maine law does not require a new primary election. The party has stated it intends to conduct an open process, though specific procedures have not been announced. Party officials have indicated that focus would shift to the general election contest against Republican incumbent Sen. Susan Collins once any withdrawal is formalized.

Troy Jackson, former state Senate president and a candidate in the recent Democratic primary for governor, has expressed interest in the Senate nomination. Jackson finished third in the gubernatorial primary. On July 8, he told the Bangor Daily News that he had not previously considered a Senate bid but would be interested if Platner steps aside. Jackson filed paperwork the following day to explore a Senate candidacy. He shares political support from Sen. Bernie Sanders with Platner.

Rep. Jared Golden, who has represented Maine’s 2nd Congressional District since 2018, has been mentioned in speculation. Golden, a Marine veteran, announced last year that he would not seek the Senate seat and is retiring from Congress at the end of his current term. A spokesperson for Golden stated on July 8 that he is not pursuing the nomination.

Angus King III, son of independent Sen. Angus King and a candidate in the Democratic gubernatorial primary, has indicated he is reflecting on future options. King received single-digit support in the June primary. In a statement to News Center Maine, he said any decision to run would be based on a belief that he could make a meaningful contribution, not on holding office itself.

Gov. Janet Mills, whose term ends in January 2026, suspended her Senate campaign in April after entering the race in October 2025. She remained on the primary ballot and received 19.2 percent of the vote compared with Platner’s 72.1 percent.

Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, who also ran in the gubernatorial primary, has called for Platner to step down following the allegation reported by the New York Post. Bellows was the first woman to serve as Maine’s secretary of state and drew national attention in 2024 for actions related to former President Donald Trump’s ballot access in the state.

Sara Gideon, former Maine House speaker and the Democratic nominee for Senate in 2020, has been referenced in discussions. Gideon lost to Collins by nine percentage points in that election.

Paige Loud, a social worker who received 10 percent of the vote in the Democratic primary for the 2nd Congressional District, has filed paperwork to run for Senate. A spokesperson stated that the filing was made to keep options open for supporters seeking a female nominee if Platner withdraws.

Dr. Nirav Shah, who placed second in the Democratic gubernatorial primary, has received messages of encouragement and stated he is evaluating whether to enter the Senate race. Shah previously directed the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention and later served as principal deputy director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. He has described himself as not an establishment politician.

Jordan Wood, who ran for Senate before switching to the 2nd Congressional District primary, has said he is continuing conversations with voters about a possible Senate candidacy. Wood finished third in the House primary.

David Costello, the Democratic Senate nominee in 2024, has stated he would re-enter the race if Platner withdraws. Costello finished third in the June primary.

Dan Kleban, co-founder of Maine Beer Company and a former candidate, has reportedly received calls encouraging another run.

Platner’s campaign has been reported to be considering withdrawal, with any replacement expected to align with the nominee’s existing platform. The Maine Democratic Party has emphasized that it will not allow external influence over the selection process. As of late July 8, the party had not detailed the exact mechanism for choosing a replacement.