Democrat Graham Platner suspends campaign for key US Senate race after assault allegation

July 9, 2026

Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner has suspended his campaign in Maine following a sexual assault allegation and multiple other controversies. The oyster farmer and military veteran, who had gained momentum with progressive policies and endorsements from Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, faced mounting pressure from party leaders to withdraw. Platner denies the assault allegation made by Jenny Racicot, claiming his decision stems from Democrats threatening to withdraw campaign support rather than an admission of wrongdoing.

Who is affected

Graham Platner (candidate suspending his campaign)
Jenny Racicot (41-year-old woman who made the assault allegation)
Republican Senator Susan Collins (opponent in the Senate race)
Democratic Party leadership and organizations (Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, Maine Democratic Party)
Former endorsers (Senators Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, Ruben Gallego, Martin Heinrich, and Representative Ro Khanna)
Maine Governor Janet Mills (previously suspended her campaign for the nomination)
Democratic voters in Maine
Three former girlfriends who accused Platner of erratic behavior

What action is being taken

Platner is suspending campaign operations
Democrats have cut off campaign support and rescinded endorsements
Platner is withholding official withdrawal paperwork until assured the replacement selection process will be transparent and democratic

Why it matters

This race is pivotal to Democrats' longshot attempt to flip control of the US Senate in November's midterm elections. Maine is considered a must-win state for Democrats to achieve a Senate majority, requiring them to flip Collins' seat, retain all existing seats, and gain three additional seats. The collapse of Platner's candidacy significantly damages Democratic prospects in a race already described as an uphill battle.

What's next

Under state law, Platner must officially drop out by July 13 for a replacement candidate's name to be placed on the ballot. Platner has stated he will file withdrawal paperwork once assured the replacement selection process is "open, transparent, and democratic."

Read full article from source: BBC