Platner Rape Allegation Triggers Democratic Exodus Before July 13 Deadline

Maine Democrats face an abrupt threat to their best chance at flipping a Senate seat in November. Graham Platner, the party’s nominee against Republican Sen. Susan Collins, confronts a single sexual assault allegation that has already prompted Senate leaders and former endorsers to demand his immediate withdrawal. The July 13 state deadline for ballot changes leaves the party with six days to decide whether to replace him or risk an empty line on the November ballot.

Jenny Racicot, who dated Platner on and off for more than two years, told Politico and CNN that he entered her home uninvited while intoxicated in late 2021, climbed on top of her, and had nonconsensual sex despite her repeated objections. Platner has denied the claim as “troubling, serious, and false” and said he is reflecting on the best path forward. Under Maine law, withdrawal by 5 p.m. on July 13 would allow the state party to select a replacement by July 27.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and DSCC Chair Kirsten Gillibrand stated they will not invest in the race if Platner remains. Rep. Ro Khanna and Sen. Elizabeth Warren both rescinded endorsements, with Khanna calling sexual assault a “red line” and Warren saying there can be “no tolerance.” Other Democrats, including Sens. Martin Heinrich, Ruben Gallego, Mark Kelly, and Elissa Slotkin, also withdrew support. Potential replacements mentioned include former state Senate president Troy Jackson, former health official Nirav Shah, and Secretary of State Shenna Bellows.

Platner’s earlier controversies include a covered-up tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol, old social media posts, and prior allegations of physical violence from ex-girlfriends. Collins called the new allegation “appalling” but declined to comment on the Democratic nomination. No court records or additional corroboration beyond Racicot’s account and contemporaneous messages have been reported.