Maine Democrat Graham Platner Halts Senate Run After Sexual‑Assault Allegation

The Democratic Senate hopeful in Maine ended his campaign after a woman named Jenny Racicot filed a sexual‑assault complaint. Her story, detailed in Politico interviews, suggested he entered her home while intoxicated and behaved aggressively. The claim prompted millions of dollars in support to be withdrawn by the Democratic Senate Campaign Committee and the Maine Democratic Party.

Key Points of the Allegation

Racicot said that a relationship that spanned more than two years ended after he entered her residence against her wishes. The allegations came to light on Monday, while the campaign was rallying for mid‑term momentum. In a video posted to X, Platner declared the accusation false and the worst imaginable wrongdoing, but stopped short of admitting guilt. He pointed to the cutting off of Democratic backing as a major factor in his decision to pause the campaign.

Impact on the Maine Senate Race

The Maine seat is one of several critical battlegrounds Democrats aim to win to flip control of the U.S. Senate in November. Susan Collins has held the seat for years and has a sizable advantage. The sudden vacancy leaves the party scrambling to select a new nominee by July 13, as state law requires for ballot placement. A rapid convention is slated, with hundreds of delegates expected to vote on a successor.

Potential Replacements

A range of figures have signaled interest, from former Governor Janet Mills to state Senator Troy Jackson. Dan Kleban, founder of a local beer company, also entered the conversation. While the party emphasizes an open and democratic process, the urgency of the nomination may streamline the selection. The new candidate will need to balance Platner’s populist platform with a viable strategy against Collins.

Photo: Graham Platner at a campaign event in Maine, June 2026. Source: Getty Images