politics
Schumer urges Platner to withdraw from Maine Senate race
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand called on Graham Platner to end his campaign. The request came after allegations of sexual assault were reported by Politico.
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Jul 6, 7:13 PM·1m read
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Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand issued a joint statement calling on Graham Platner to withdraw immediately as the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate in Maine.
Allegations and response Politico reported Monday that Jenny Racicot, a 41-year-old Maine woman, alleged Platner sexually assaulted her during a 2021 date. Racicot told the outlet she recalled Platner grabbing her pelvis and being forceful, and that she felt the encounter was no longer her choice.
Platner denied the allegation, stating any accusation of non-consensual behavior is categorically false. He said he is taking time to consider his next steps.
Party statements and timeline Maine's Democratic Party issued a statement Monday evening also calling on Platner to withdraw. Rep. Ro Khanna and Sen. Ruben Gallego each posted on X that they were rescinding their endorsements. Under Maine law, the deadline for Platner to withdraw is July 13.
If he steps aside, the state party has two weeks to choose a replacement nominee. Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders had not called for his withdrawal as of press time.
