Sanders recommends Platner step aside after assault allegation

Sanders had endorsed Platner nearly a year earlier and described him as a working-class candidate. The senator remained silent for roughly 21 hours after the allegation became public before issuing a statement that he had spoken with Platner and advised him to withdraw.

Other endorsers call for replacement Several other Democratic backers had already denounced Platner and urged Maine Democrats to select another candidate with similar policy views. Platner has indicated he is reluctant to leave the race if doing so would result in a less progressive nominee.

Maine party rules allow the Democratic State Committee to name a replacement if Platner withdraws within six days, with a deadline of July 27 to notify state officials.

Potential replacements discussed Several Maine Democrats have begun positioning themselves as possible replacements. Failed gubernatorial candidate Nirav Shah launched a Senate campaign page on Tuesday and proposed public debates among hopefuls. California Rep.

Ro Khanna suggested former state Senate President Troy Jackson could serve as a substitute nominee. Jackson filed paperwork on Tuesday to seek the Senate seat and has been backed by some progressive groups seeking a candidate who supports Medicare for All and limits on campaign spending.

Republicans have said any replacement would still face attacks linking them to Platner.