Maine Senate candidate faces calls to withdraw after rape allegation

Democratic officials and organizations withdrew support Monday for Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner after a woman accused him of rape in interviews with Politico and CNN. Jenny Racicot, 41, said Platner entered her home uninvited while intoxicated nearly five years ago and forced her to engage in unprotected sex despite her attempts to stop him.

’" She described the alleged encounter to CNN as the "dictionary definition" of rape. Platner issued a statement denying the account and said he was "taking the time to reflect on the best path forward" for his campaign.

Endorsements withdrawn Sen.

, rescinded her endorsement, stating there can be "no tolerance for sexual assault" and calling for Platner to step aside. Rep. , also withdrew support, as did Sens. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., and Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee Chair Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., said in a joint statement that the committee would not invest in the race if Platner remained on the ballot.

Additional reactions Maine Rep.

Chellie Pingree, her daughter Hannah Pingree, former public health official Nirav Shah, and State Sen. Troy Jackson also called for Platner to withdraw. Left-wing groups including End Citizen United and VoteVets pulled their endorsements. " Sen. , had not commented as of late Monday.

m. on July 13.